Flexor Tendon Exam | Hand Surgery Resource

Exams and Signs

This section shows images for each individual flexor tendon exam and the video below shows the combined exam of all the flexor tendons at once. The flexor tendons are the connection between each flexor muscle belly and its insertion site. The tendon exam is particular useful when the examinator is looking for evidence of tendon laceration or rupture. To find additional information on each muscle tendon unit use the links below to go to the individual muscle testing and flexor tendon examination sections.

Additional Information

Presentation Photos and Related Diagrams

Flexor Digitorum Profundus Tendon testing right hand
Flexor Digitorum Superficialis (Sublimus) Tendon testing right hand
Flexor Pollicis Longus Tendon testing left hand
Flexor Digitorum Profundus III Tendon testing left hand
Flexor Digitorum Superficialis III Tendon testing left hand
Flexor Carpi Radialis Tendon testing left hand
Flexor Carpi Ulnaris Tendon testing left hand

Definition of Positive Result

In tendon exam, an abnormal result (e.g. Cut tendon) is a positive one. During a positive tendon exam, the examiner should observe a abnormal tendon function. The tested tendon can not move the joint(s) properly and can not provide normal power against the examiner's resistance to the normal joint motion.

Definition of Negative Result

In tendon exam, an normal result (e.g. intact tendon) is a negative one. The exam is negative for a cut or ruptured tendon. During a negative tendon exam, the examiner should observe a normal tendon function. The tested tendon should move the joint(s) properly and provide normal power against the examiner's resistance to the normal joint motion.

Comments and Pearls

Grade 5 normal strength varies from individual to individual.
Always compare affected to unaffect extremities before concluding that the strength is normal or abnormal.

Diagnoses Associated with Exams and Signs

Videos

Flexor Tendon Exam Left Hand and Wrist

References

Hislop JH, Avers D, Brown M. Daniels and Worthingham's Muscle Testing, Techniques of Manual Examination and Performance Testing. 9th ed. St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier Saunders, 2014, pp. 138–202.
Kendall FP, McCreary EK, Provance PG. Muscles Testing and Function. 4th ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams & Wilkins, 1993, pp. 235–298.

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