Execution
- 1Position the patient sitting with the elbow flexed to 90°.
- 2Place the wrist in ulnar deviation.
- 3Stabilize the forearm with one hand.
- 4Apply axial compression through the fourth and fifth metacarpals.
- 5Note pain at the ulnar wrist and compare with other ulnar-sided wrist tests.
Positive outcome
Pain during ulnar deviation with axial compression is positive. Magee relates this to central TFCC tear or ulnar impaction syndrome. Clicking or crepitus increases suspicion but does not localize the exact lesion by itself.
Studies
| Study | Reliability | Sn | Sp | LR+ | LR− |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schmauss et al. (2016) | NA | NA | NA | NA | NA |
CommentMagee lists the ulnar impaction or ulnar grind manoeuvre as a TFCC compression test, but it is not specific to TFCC tears. Ulnocarpal abutment, lunotriquetral pathology, and arthritis can also reproduce pain. Use it as an ulnar-sided wrist pain provocation rather than a definitive TFCC test.
Low Clinical Value