Durkan's Test (Carpal Compression) Special Test
Orthopedic Physical Examination & Clinical Assessment Guide
What is it used for?
- Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
How to Perform
- Action: Examiner applies direct pressure with thumbs over the carpal tunnel for 30 seconds.
Interpretation of Results
- Positive Test: Onset of paresthesia (tingling) in the median nerve distribution.
- Note: Often considered more sensitive than Phalen's or Tinel's.
Diagnostic Accuracy
- Sensitivity: 87%
- Specificity: 90%
Clinical Context & Limitations
The Durkan's Test (Carpal Compression) should be considered as one component of a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. No single special test has perfect diagnostic accuracy; thus, clinical decision-making should integrate test results with patient-reported symptoms, mechanism of injury, functional impairment, and relevant imaging.
Clinicians should be aware of potential false-positive results in patients with pain sensitisation, muscle guarding, or poor relaxation. For the Wrist & Hand region, combining the Durkan's Test (Carpal Compression) with complementary examination tests significantly improves overall diagnostic confidence.
