What does pronator drift testing assess?

Pronator drift testing primarily assesses upper extremity coordination. This clinical test involves observing a patient as they hold their arms out in front of them with the palms facing up. The examiner looks for any involuntary movement of one arm downward (pronation) or drift towards one side, which could suggest neurological issues, particularly related to motor function and coordination.

When one arm drifts or pronates, it indicates potential weakness or coordination issues on that side of the body, often linked to conditions affecting the motor pathways. The test is frequently used in neurological examinations to evaluate for possible strokes, lesions, or other central nervous system problems.

While other tests may focus on lower extremity strength, balance and stability, or sensory perception, pronator drift is distinctly focused on how well a person can maintain shoulder and arm positioning, thus emphasizing upper extremity coordination.