College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

What condition is indicated by sudden severe pain at the lateral epicondyle during Cozen's test?

1. Ulnar nerve injury

2. Positive Cozen's Test

3. Referred shoulder pain

4. Medial epicondylitis

The correct answer is: Positive Cozen's Test

The correct answer is about a positive Cozen's test indicating lateral epicondylitis, commonly referred to as "tennis elbow." Cozen's test is a specific physical examination maneuver used to assess pain associated with the extensor muscles of the forearm that attach at the lateral epicondyle of the humerus. During the test, the therapist applies a force while the patient resists wrist extension and radial deviation. If there is sudden severe pain at the lateral epicondyle during this test, it demonstrates positive findings for lateral epicondylitis, confirming irritation or pain in the area associated with overuse injuries. This condition is typically characterized by inflammation of the tendons that attach at the lateral epicondyle, often due to repetitive motion or strain. Thus, a positive Cozen's test specifically confirms that there is an issue at the lateral epicondyle, making the understanding of this correlation crucial for diagnosing and managing conditions related to elbow pain.