Loading the triangular fibrocartilage complex

A clinician can provoke signs of a triangular fibrocartilage complex injury by using the maneuver pictured above. The clinician uses one hand to hold the forearm steady and uses the other hand to place the wrist in ulnar deviation and extension. Once this position is achieved, the clinician applies an axial load to the wrist, thereby compressing the joint. Pain caused by compression marks a positive test.