Description:
The upper limb tension test (ULTT) is a neurodynamic test testing for increased nerve mechanosensitivity. This test is specifically testing the Median Nerve and primarily C5 - C7 nerve roots. The ULTT is performed in a non-weight bearing position. The amount of mobility of the neural elements of the upper limb are assessed while determining whether the patient's upper quarter symptoms are elicited during performance of the test.
Measurement:
Upper limb tension tests are performed while the patient is in supine. During performance of the test the examiner must follow the following progression:
In order to structurally differentiate for the patient’s symptoms the examiner can:
Positive Test:
A positive test occurs when any of the following findings are present:
1. Reproduction of all or part of the patient's symptoms
2. Side-to -side differences of greater than 10 degrees of elbow extension or wrist extension
3. On the symptomatic side, contralateral cervical side-bending increases the patient's symptoms, or ipsilateral side-bending
decreases the patient's symptoms
The upper limb tension test (ULTT) is a neurodynamic test testing for increased nerve mechanosensitivity. This test is specifically testing the Median Nerve and primarily C5 - C7 nerve roots. The ULTT is performed in a non-weight bearing position. The amount of mobility of the neural elements of the upper limb are assessed while determining whether the patient's upper quarter symptoms are elicited during performance of the test.
Measurement:
Upper limb tension tests are performed while the patient is in supine. During performance of the test the examiner must follow the following progression:
- Scapular depression and stabilize the shoulder girdle
- Wrist in neutral, fingers in extension, and thumb in abduction
- Establish resting symptoms
- Shoulder abduction to about 90 degrees with the elbow flexed
- Wrist and finger extension and forearm supination
- Shoulder lateral rotation
- Elbow extension
In order to structurally differentiate for the patient’s symptoms the examiner can:
- Contralateral then ipsilateral cervical side-bending
- OR release wrist extension and assess the patient’s symptoms
Positive Test:
A positive test occurs when any of the following findings are present:
1. Reproduction of all or part of the patient's symptoms
2. Side-to -side differences of greater than 10 degrees of elbow extension or wrist extension
3. On the symptomatic side, contralateral cervical side-bending increases the patient's symptoms, or ipsilateral side-bending
decreases the patient's symptoms
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