Elson Test

What is the "Elson Test" used for?

• The Elson test is a diagnostic test used for early detection of injuries to the central slip of the extensor tendon of the hand.

How to perform the "Elson Test"?

1. The patient rest his hand on a table, with the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint of the involved finger flexed to 90 degrees over the edge of the table.
2. Palpate the middle phalanx of the involved finger, then ask the patient to extend the PIP joint against resistance

What is the positive result?

• The Elson test is considered POSITIVE if the patient has a weak extension at the PIP joint while the  DIP becomes rigid.
• While it is considered NEGATIVE if the PIP joint is tight in extension , while the DIP remains supple.

References

• Elson Test | Orthofixar
• Research Gate