Which test is identified by palpating the lateral epicondyle while fully flexing the wrist?

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The test identified by palpating the lateral epicondyle while fully flexing the wrist is known as the Mills Test. This test is specifically designed to assess for lateral epicondylitis, often referred to as "tennis elbow." During the Mills Test, the clinician applies pressure to the lateral epicondyle while flexing the wrist, which puts strain on the common extensor tendons, particularly the extensor carpi radialis brevis. If pain is elicited during this maneuver, it suggests inflammation or irritation of these tendons and supports a diagnosis of lateral epicondylitis.

Knowing this, other tests mentioned do not directly correlate with this specific technique of palpation and wrist flexion. For example, Cozen's Test involves resisted wrist extension to evaluate for similar conditions but does not focus on palpation while flexing the wrist. Maudsley's Test assesses pain reproduction when the middle finger is extended against resistance, which is also different from the Mills Test's approach. Lastly, Finkelstein's Test is used to diagnose de Quervain's tenosynovitis, focusing on wrist ulnar deviation and thumb flexion rather than the study of the lateral epicondyle. Thus, Mills Test is correctly identified as the

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