pronator drift

Procedure: - the patient stands* for 20-30 seconds with both arms forward & extended with palms up & eyes closed (normal person can hold this arm position easily) * The test may also be done in the sitting position for those who cannot stand Interpretation: - pronation of one forearm suggests a lesion in the contralateral corticospinal tract - downward dirft of the arm with flexion of the fingers & elbow may also occur - a sideward or upward drift, occasionally with writhing movements of the hands suggests a loss of position sense (lesion in the posterior columns)

References

Guide to Physical Examination & History Taking, 6th edition, Bates B, JB Lippincott, Philadelphia, 1995, pg 521