The scaphoid shift test.

Abstract

The scaphoid test described by Watson has generally been accepted as the definitive test for scaphoid instability and uses pressure against the scaphoid tubercle as the wrist moves from ulnar to radial deviation for the evaluation. This article describes a stress test done with the wrist in neutral position, which actively provokes scaphoid instability. Variations in stability can be used to grade scaphoid laxity.