Scaphoid Shift Test

Other Names

• Watson's Test
• Watson's Scaphoid Test
• Watson Scaphoid Shift Test

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Purpose

The examiner's thumb applies pressure to the scaphoid tubercle while the subject's hand is moved from ulnar deviation to radial deviation

• Evaluate the Scaphoid and Scapholunate Ligament

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Description

• The patient is seated with arm resting on table
• The examiner places their thumb on the scaphoid tubercle on the palmer side, other fingers placed on the distal radius
• The other hand holds the patients hand at the metacarpals
• The wrist is slightly extended with ulnar deviation
• This position is then inverted to radial deviation and slight palmer flexion
• During this maneuver, the examiner is applying constant pressure with their thumb on the scaphoid tubercle
• Positive Test:
  • Dorsal shift or displacement of fracture fragment
  • When pressure is removed, fragment will spontaneously reduce
• Compare with unaffected wrist

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Pathology

• Scaphoid Fracture
• Scapholunate Instability

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Evidence

• Unknown

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See Also

• Physical Exam Wrist
• Wrist Pain (Main)
• Fractures (Main)

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