Wrist & Hand Exam - Positives & Indicators

Question 1

Bunnel-Littler Test

Answer 1

Positive: Flexion of the proximal interphalangeal joint cannot be achievedIndicates: Joint capsule contracturePositive: Flexion of the proximal interphalangeal joint is achievedIndicates: Tight intrinsic muscles

Question 2

Reverse Phalen SignPrayer Sign

Answer 2

Positive: Reproduction of pain and/or paresthesia in the median nerve distribution area (thumb, 2nd, 3rd and the lateral 1/2 of the 4th digit)Indicates: Median neuritis, possibly carpal tunnel syndrome

Question 3

Retinacular Test

Answer 3

Positive: Flexion of the distal interphalangeal joint cannot be achievedIndicates: Joint capsule contracturePositive: Flexion of the distal interphalangeal joint is achievedIndicates: Tight retinacular ligament

Question 4

Finkelstein Test

Answer 4

Positive: Pain distal to the radial styloid processIndicates: Stenosing tenosynovitis of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons (DeQuervain’s Disease)

Question 5

Allen Test

Answer 5

Positive: A delay of more than 10 seconds (Evans 5 seconds) in returning a reddish color to the handIndicates: Radial or ulnar artery insufficiency. The artery being held (occluded) by the examiner is not the artery being tested

Question 6

Tinel Wrist Sign

Answer 6

Positive: Reproduction of pain, tenderness and/or paresthesia in the median nerve distribution area (thumb, 2nd, 3rd and the lateral 1/2 of the 4th digit)Indicates: Median neuritis, possibly carpal tunnel syndrome

Question 7

Phalen Sign

Answer 7

Positive: Reproduction of pain and/or paresthesia in the median nerve distribution area (thumb, 2nd, 3rd and the lateral 1/2 of the 4th digit)Indicates: Median neuritis, possibly carpal tunnel syndrome