Which position tends to reproduce symptoms of Bassett's lesion?

• A. Elbow flexion and pronation
• B. Elbow extension and pronation
• C. Shoulder flexion and lateral rotation
• D. Shoulder adduction and internal rotation

Answer: (B)

Bassett's lesion is associated with an entrapment of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, particularly at the cubital tunnel. The position that tends to reproduce symptoms of this lesion involves a combination of elbow extension and pronation. In this position, the ulnar nerve becomes more taut as it travels through the cubital tunnel, potentially exacerbating symptoms such as tingling or numbness in the ulnar nerve distribution, which includes the ring and little fingers.

Elbow extension creates tension on the ulnar nerve, while pronation may further contribute to entrapment as the nerve slides over the medial epicondyle. This combination of movements can aggravate the symptoms associated with Bassett's lesion, making it a crucial position to assess when examining for ulnar nerve entrapment. Understanding this relationship helps guide both clinical assessment and appropriate treatment strategies for patients experiencing these symptoms.