The Watson test checks for instability at the base of the wrist joint. The examiner gently rotates the wrist to detect abnormalities and pain. Treatment options include bracing, physical therapy, and surgery. The test is minimally invasive and can be performed by orthopedic physicians and hand specialists.
Watson’s test checks for instability at the base of the wrist, where the joint articulates with the arm bones. This exam may be done as part of a routine hand and wrist evaluation or when a doctor suspects a patient has a problem with this area of the wrist. In the test, the caregiver gently holds the wrist as they rotate it, detecting abnormalities and listening for an unnatural click or sound. The patient may feel pain if the wrist is unstable.
The wrist is a delicate joint made up of a series of extremely small bones. These bones work together to provide a wide range of motion; patients may notice, for example, that the wrist can rotate more than other joints. Detailed articulation allows the hands to perform fine motor tasks that require coordination and accurate positioning. This exam specifically examines the scaphoid and lunate bones at the bottom of the joint where it meets the radius and ulna.
To perform the Watson test, the examiner sits facing the patient and gently grasps the wrist before rotating it. In a healthy individual, the wrist should move smoothly and comfortably. People with instability in the joint may report pain as the pulse makes a distinctive sound. The test can be repeated on the opposite wrist to confirm the result. Healthcare professionals may want to perform a few other evaluations in addition to the Watson test to make sure the problem lies with these bones and not elsewhere in the wrist joint.
If a physician determines that instability is present during the Watson test, there are a number of options for the patient. In some cases further tests such as medical imaging studies may be advised to learn more about what is happening inside the wrist. Bracing and physical therapy can be used to support the joint and develop strength. In some cases, surgery may need to be considered as an option to stabilize the joint. This may be necessary if there is extensive damage to the wrist.
Orthopedic physicians and specialists who focus on hand care can perform the Watson test during patient evaluation. The test is minimally invasive, which can make it a valuable diagnostic tool. Patients should be prepared for some wrist pain if there is a strong likelihood that the joint is unstable. The discomfort associated with the test is brief, as the doctor wants to avoid injuring the patient and can provide important diagnostic information.
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