Forearm supination/pronation normative end feel and range?

• A. 0-75 degrees Hard/Firm
• B. 0-80 degrees Hard
• C. 0-80 degrees Soft
• D. 0-80 degrees Hard/Firm

Answer: (D)

Forearm rotation relies on the radioulnar joints and their ligaments, and in a normal joint the range for each direction from a neutral start is about 0 to 80 degrees. As you reach the end of that rotation, the tissues—interosseous membrane, radioulnar ligaments, and joint capsule—tension and limit further movement, producing a firm end feel. A soft end feel would suggest tissue compression or swelling, while a hard end feel would imply a bony block; normative forearm rotation isn’t typically classed as hard, though some individuals may perceive a firmer feel due to slight bony contact at the end range. Therefore, the standard description is 0-80 degrees with a firm end feel, which is why that option best matches normative values. The overall arc is about 160 degrees when adding both directions.