Elbow extensor (triceps) strength testing: where is resistance applied?

Elbow extensor (triceps) strength testing: where is resistance applied?

• A. On the anterior arm
• B. On the proximal forearm
• C. On the distal hand
• D. On the posterior forearm; stabilize the upper arm to prevent shoulder or trunk movement

Answer: (D)

The action being tested is elbow extension, which is produced by the triceps pulling on the olecranon. To isolate this muscle, apply resistance to the posterior aspect of the forearm, near the wrist, as the elbow tries to straighten. This position uses the triceps’ line of pull and provides a clear opposition force that the patient must overcome to extend the elbow. Stabilizing the upper arm is essential to prevent substitutions from the shoulder or trunk—without stabilization, the patient could use shoulder extension or trunk movement to help complete the motion, falsely increasing the perceived strength. Resistance placed elsewhere would not isolate elbow extension: on the anterior arm would bias elbow flexors (like the biceps), on the proximal forearm could change the lever and recruit different muscles, and on the distal hand risks confounding grip or finger strength with elbow strength.

The action being tested is elbow extension, which is produced by the triceps pulling on the olecranon. To isolate this muscle, apply resistance to the posterior aspect of the forearm, near the wrist, as the elbow tries to straighten. This position uses the triceps’ line of pull and provides a clear opposition force that the patient must overcome to extend the elbow.

Stabilizing the upper arm is essential to prevent substitutions from the shoulder or trunk—without stabilization, the patient could use shoulder extension or trunk movement to help complete the motion, falsely increasing the perceived strength.

Resistance placed elsewhere would not isolate elbow extension: on the anterior arm would bias elbow flexors (like the biceps), on the proximal forearm could change the lever and recruit different muscles, and on the distal hand risks confounding grip or finger strength with elbow strength.