What is the normal range of motion for wrist abduction (radial deviation)?

What is the normal range of motion for wrist abduction (radial deviation)?

• A. 0-15°
• B. 0-25°
• C. 0-35°
• D. 0-45°

Answer: (B)

Radial deviation is the motion of the hand at the wrist toward the thumb side. In a normal wrist, this movement range extends from 0 degrees up to about 25 degrees. Clinically, it’s measured with the forearm in a neutral position and the wrist deviating laterally toward the thumb; the end feel is firm due to the ligaments and joint structures around the radiocarpal area. While individual variation exists, 0–25 degrees is the commonly accepted upper limit for normal motion. Choices that propose 35 or 45 degrees would exceed typical physiological limits, and 0–15 degrees is within normal range but not as representative as 0–25 degrees for most adults.

Radial deviation is the motion of the hand at the wrist toward the thumb side. In a normal wrist, this movement range extends from 0 degrees up to about 25 degrees. Clinically, it’s measured with the forearm in a neutral position and the wrist deviating laterally toward the thumb; the end feel is firm due to the ligaments and joint structures around the radiocarpal area. While individual variation exists, 0–25 degrees is the commonly accepted upper limit for normal motion. Choices that propose 35 or 45 degrees would exceed typical physiological limits, and 0–15 degrees is within normal range but not as representative as 0–25 degrees for most adults.