The Elbow Extension Test measures how far the elbow can straighten. It is useful for tracking elbow mobility, comparing sides and recording whether the client reaches full extension, lacks extension or moves into hyperextension.
A client may feel unable to fully straighten the elbow, notice asymmetry during pressing or pushing, or report stiffness after upper-limb loading. The Elbow Extension Test provides a repeatable way to measure straightening ROM and track change over time.
The MAT article describes the client seated or standing upright with the smart device aligned alongside the forearm. The client extends the elbow while the humerus remains aligned with the trunk. The MAT source lists at least 0 degrees as the practical aim and notes that some adults may demonstrate up to 10 degrees beyond neutral.
Test name: Elbow Extension Test
Purpose: Assess elbow extension range of motion
What it assesses: Ability to straighten the elbow
Equipment: Measurz inclinometer
Key finding: Elbow extension angle in degrees
Best used with: Elbow flexion, pronation, supination, wrist ROM, grip strength and pushing tests
Key limitation: Hyperextension varies between clients and should be interpreted cautiously
The Elbow Extension Test measures how close the elbow gets to full extension or whether it moves beyond neutral into hyperextension.
It is used to establish baseline extension ROM, compare sides, track progress and add context to pushing, pressing, throwing, reaching and weight-bearing upper-limb tasks.
It measures elbow extension ROM in degrees. It does not measure triceps strength, elbow stability, pain source, grip strength or full upper-limb function.
Active elbow extension is measured when the client straightens the elbow themselves. Passive ROM may be measured if the professional assists the limb into extension. Record the method clearly.
Gym clients, throwing athletes, racquet sport athletes, combat sport athletes, clients returning to upper-limb loading and anyone with elbow mobility goals.
Measurz inclinometer
Chair or standing space
Measurz app
Notes for side, pain score, symptom location, active/passive method and hyperextension
Ask the client to sit or stand upright. If seated, they should sit upright toward the edge of the table or chair. Place the smart device up and down alongside the forearm. With the humerus aligned with the trunk, ask the client to extend the elbow as best they can. Pause and save the result at the maximal position.
Record pain, stiffness, locking sensation, apprehension or end-range discomfort.
Record the elbow extension angle in degrees. The MAT article lists at least 0 degrees as the practical aim and describes typical elbow extension as 0 to 10 degrees beyond neutral, with variation between individuals.
A lack of extension may be relevant to pushing, reaching or upper-limb loading, but it should be interpreted with symptoms, flexion ROM, forearm rotation, strength and functional findings.
Evidence level: Level 2, related or closest available reference values.
Use 0 degrees as a practical aim, while recognising that some clients naturally move into mild hyperextension. Compare both sides and record baseline.
Recent work supports clinical use of smartphone and goniometric devices for elbow ROM when procedures are consistent. Broader clinical goniometry research also highlights that device and examiner error should be considered before interpreting small changes.
Common errors include changing humerus position, shrugging the shoulder, moving the trunk, inconsistent forearm device placement, failing to record hyperextension direction and comparing active and passive results directly.
Use this test to track elbow extension ROM, compare sides, monitor progress and add context to pressing, pushing, throwing, weight-bearing and upper-limb strength work.
Record side, elbow extension angle, whether hyperextension is present, active/passive method, pain score, symptom location, forearm position, humerus position, test position, comparison side and retest score.
Elbow Flexion Test
Elbow Pronation Test
Elbow Supination Test
Wrist Extension Test
Push-Up Test
Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Test
It measures how far the elbow can straighten.
The MAT source lists at least 0 degrees as the practical aim.
Yes. Record the angle and compare with the opposite side.
No. It is a ROM finding and should be interpreted with symptoms and related tests.
The Elbow Extension Test measures elbow straightening ROM.
Record hyperextension if present.
Keep forearm alignment consistent.
Record active/passive method.
Track symptoms and side comparison in Measurz.
Kiatkulanusorn, S., Luangpon, N., Srijunto, W., Watechagit, S., Pitchayadejanant, K., Kuharat, S., Anwar Bég, O., & Paepetch Suato, B. (2023). Analysis of the concurrent validity and reliability of five common clinical goniometric devices. Scientific Reports, 13, 20915.
Shah, N., et al. (2020). Validity and reliability of smartphone inclinometer applications for measurement of elbow range of motion in paediatric patients. Journal of Children’s Orthopaedics, 14(6), 573–580.
