Elbow Orthopaedic Test: Wringing Test for Lateral Epicondylitis

The Wringing test is a physical examination maneuver used to assess for the presence of lateral epicondylitis, also known as tennis elbow. The test involves asking the patient to grip an object, such as a doorknob or towel, and twist it back and forth as if wringing out a towel.

Procedure:

1. Ask the patient to sit comfortably with their arm resting on a table or their lap, and their elbow flexed at a 90-degree angle.
2. Provide the patient with an object to grip, such as a doorknob or towel, and instruct them to twist it back and forth as if wringing out a towel.
3. Observe the patient's arm and elbow for any pain or discomfort during the twisting motion.
4. Ask the patient to repeat the twisting motion several times, and observe for any changes in pain or discomfort.
5. Repeat the test on the other arm for comparison, if necessary.

A positive Wringing test is characterized by pain or discomfort in the lateral epicondyle region during the twisting motion. This can suggest the presence of lateral epicondylitis, but it should be used in conjunction with other clinical findings and diagnostic tests for an accurate diagnosis.

References:

1. Sahrmann SA. Diagnosis and Treatment of Movement Impairment Syndromes. St. Louis, MO: Mosby; 2002.
2. Magee DJ. Orthopedic Physical Assessment. 5th ed. St. Louis, MO: Saunders Elsevier; 2008.
3. Childress MA, Beutler AI. Management of chronic tendon injuries. Am Fam Physician. 2013;87(7):486-490.
4. Hume K, Jamison M. Tennis elbow: a review. J Hand Ther. 2014;27(3):187-193.