Pull Test for HRJ assesses for which condition?

• A. Tendinopathy or posterior interosseous nerve entrapment
• B. Tennis elbow
• C. Posterior shoulder instability
• D. UCL tear

Answer: (A)

The main idea behind the pull test for the humeroradial joint is to stress the structures around the radial head where the elbow’s extensor tendons insert and where the posterior interosseous nerve runs close to the joint. By applying traction on the forearm, you tension the annular ligament and the nearby tendinous and neural tissues. If there is tendinopathy of the common extensor tendon near the radial head or irritation/entrapment of the posterior interosseous nerve, this maneuver can reproduce pain or paresthesias, indicating those conditions. It isn’t aimed at diagnosing posterior shoulder instability or UCL tear, which are evaluated with different tests targeting the shoulder mechanics or elbow valgus stability, respectively. So, a positive pull test here points to tendinopathy around the HRJ or posterior interosseous nerve entrapment.