What is the loose-packed position for radiocarpal volar glide joint mobilization?

• A. Neutral to flexion, extension, radial deviation, and ulnar deviation
• B. Full extension with neutral rotation
• C. Full flexion with neutral rotation
• D. Neutral with no deviation

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is what position yields the most joint play for a radiocarpal volar glide. Loose-packed means the joint surfaces are minimally compressed and the capsule is slackened, giving the largest available space to move. For the radiocarpal joint this isn’t a single fixed angle; it’s a small range around neutral that can include slight flexion, slight extension, and minor deviations in either direction. Positioning the wrist in this loose-packed zone allows the clinician to apply a volar (palmar) glide effectively because the joint can separate and glide without being forced into a tightly compressed position. Positions like full extension or full flexion limit this space, and a strictly neutral position with no deviation is too restrictive to accommodate the loose-packed state.