How is the special test for lateral epicondylitis typically performed?

The special test for lateral epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow, is typically performed by resisting forearm pronation and wrist extension. This method assesses the strength and functionality of the muscles attached to the lateral epicondyle, particularly the extensor muscles of the forearm.

When the clinician applies resistance while the patient attempts to extend their wrist or pronate their forearm, any pain or discomfort in the lateral elbow region suggests irritation or inflammation of the extensor tendons. This pain response helps clinicians confirm a diagnosis of lateral epicondylitis, as it specifically targets the area of concern and the movements that exacerbate the potential injury.

The other options, while they involve movements or positions of the elbow, do not specifically isolate the condition as effectively as resisting forearm pronation and wrist extension does. For example, actively flexing the elbow or applying pressure to the elbow joint do not directly engage the extensor muscles responsible for lateral epicondylitis. Using a wrist dynamometer measures grip strength but does not direct attention to the elicitation of symptoms related to lateral epicondylitis in the same focused manner. Thus, the method involving resistance to wrist extension and forearm pronation is the most effective for assessing this condition.