What tests are positive in Carpal tunnel syndrome?

What tests are positive in Carpal tunnel syndrome?

• A. Positive Phalen test and Positive Tinel test.
• B. Phalen test only.
• C. Tinel test only.
• D. Result is negative for both Phalen and Tinel.

Answer: (A)

In carpal tunnel syndrome, provocative tests that stress the median nerve help identify affected nerves. The Phalen maneuver holds the wrists in full flexion, which raises pressure in the carpal tunnel and can reproduce numbness or tingling in the median nerve distribution. The Tinel sign involves tapping over the carpal tunnel, which can elicit paresthesias along the median nerve path. Because CTS can produce symptoms with either maneuver, having both a positive Phalen and a positive Tinel fits best. Keep in mind these tests support the diagnosis but aren’t perfect; some patients may have one positive test or even both negative, and nerve conduction studies are used for confirmation.

In carpal tunnel syndrome, provocative tests that stress the median nerve help identify affected nerves. The Phalen maneuver holds the wrists in full flexion, which raises pressure in the carpal tunnel and can reproduce numbness or tingling in the median nerve distribution. The Tinel sign involves tapping over the carpal tunnel, which can elicit paresthesias along the median nerve path. Because CTS can produce symptoms with either maneuver, having both a positive Phalen and a positive Tinel fits best. Keep in mind these tests support the diagnosis but aren’t perfect; some patients may have one positive test or even both negative, and nerve conduction studies are used for confirmation.