Maudsley's test involves resisted extension of which finger?

Maudsley's test involves resisted extension of which finger?

• A. Ring finger
• B. Little finger
• C. Index finger
• D. Middle finger

Answer: (D)

Maudsley’s test checks the function of the extensor tendon to the middle finger. In the test, you ask the patient to actively extend the middle finger against resistance while the other fingers are stabilized in a flexed position. If the extensor digitorum tendon to the middle finger is intact, the finger will extend fully. If that tendon is ruptured or severely injured, the patient won’t be able to extend the middle finger against resistance, giving a positive result. This isolates the middle finger’s extensor mechanism, which is why the middle finger is the finger tested. The other digits have their own separate extensor tendons, so the test is specifically targeting the middle finger.

Maudsley’s test checks the function of the extensor tendon to the middle finger. In the test, you ask the patient to actively extend the middle finger against resistance while the other fingers are stabilized in a flexed position. If the extensor digitorum tendon to the middle finger is intact, the finger will extend fully. If that tendon is ruptured or severely injured, the patient won’t be able to extend the middle finger against resistance, giving a positive result. This isolates the middle finger’s extensor mechanism, which is why the middle finger is the finger tested. The other digits have their own separate extensor tendons, so the test is specifically targeting the middle finger.