Elbow Plica Impingement Test

Published July 2, 2026 Read time 1 min read Readers 1
Elbow Plica Impingement Test

What is the "Elbow Plica Impingement Test" used for?

  • Elbow Plica Impingement

How to perform the "Elbow Plica Impingement Test"?

  • The examiner applies a valgus load to the elbow while passively flexing the elbow with the forearm held in pronation. Pain or snapping (more important) between 90° and 110° of flexion indicates a positive test for the anterior radiocapitellar plica (flexion-pronation plica test). 
  • To test the posterior radiocapitellar plica, the examiner applies a valgus load to the elbow while passively extending the elbow with the forearm held in supination. Pain or a snap would indicate a positive test indicating a possible plica problem or radiocapitellar chondromalacia. 
  • If just pain occurs, it is unlikely to be a plica.