Elbow supination takes place at the wrist and elbow, allowing the hand to rotate upward. Normal elbow supination ranges from 80 to 90 degrees. This can vary from person to person, based on bony structure and mobility, and soft tissue tension. Injury can cause restrictions which adversely affect range of motion. Full or normal range of motion is important to allow for the performance of activities of daily living. Accurate assessment can be difficult without training and practice, but you can take a measurement for general purposes.
Subject: Range of Motion
Step 1
Bend the elbow to 90 degrees, while holding your elbow flexed at your waist. Holding your elbow at your waist eliminates shoulder motion.
Step 2
Hold a pencil in your hand, with the pencil pointing toward the ceiling.
Step 3
Rotate your fist outward until you reach the end of the range of motion. The pencil should be parallel to the floor if you have normal range of motion.
Examiner: Goniometer Measurement
Step 1
Follow Steps 1 and 2 from the section on Subject Range of Motion. Align both arms of the goniometer with the pencil, so it is pointing at the ceiling.
Step 2
Hold the stationary arm of the goniometer in place, while rotating the moving arm directly in line with the pencil.
Step 3
Record the number at the end of the range of motion.
Tips and Warnings
- Bilateral comparison is always a good idea. Full pronation to supination would allow for the pencil to be parallel to the floor on both sides, palm down and palm up.
- To avoid injury, "pushing through " painful range of motion should only be done under medical supervision.
Things You'll Need
- Goniometer
- Pencil
