Wrist & Hand
Nerve Compression
Evidence: suggestive
Tinel's Sign (Wrist) Special Test
Orthopedic Physical Examination & Clinical Assessment Guide
What is it used for?
- Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Median Nerve).
How to Perform
- Action: Examiner lightly taps (percusses) over the median nerve at the carpal tunnel (wrist crease).
Interpretation of Results
- Positive Test: Tingling or "electric shock" sensation in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
- Why: An irritated nerve is hypersensitive to mechanical percussion.
Diagnostic Accuracy
- Sensitivity: 70%
- Specificity: 90%
References
- Researchgate