Understanding the Finkelstein Test Assessment
To diagnose **De Quervain's Tenosynovitis** (tendinosis of APL and EPB tendons).
Watch How It's Done
How do I start?
Patient is sitting or standing with the forearm supported.
What happens?
The patient is asked to **make a fist** with their thumb tucked inside the fingers. The examiner then passively and sharply **ulnar deviates the wrist**.
In Plain English
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
Sharp **pain over the radial styloid** and along the course of the APL and EPB tendons.
Helpful Tip:
This test places maximum stretch on the inflamed tendons.
Safety First
This guide is to help you understand what happens in a clinic. Do not try to diagnose yourself. If you have severe pain, swelling, or cannot put weight on your leg, please visit an urgent care center or your doctor immediately.
Other Wrist/Hand Tests
Beighton Score
To quantify **generalized joint hypermobility** (laxity) across the body. The wrist/hand components assess passive joint laxity.
Bunnell-Littler Test (or Finochietto-Bunnell Test)
To differentiate between **Intrinsic Muscle tightness** (interossei and lumbricals) and **Capsular restriction** at the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint.
De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
This is the **condition name** (inflammation of the APL and EPB tendons), not a specific test. The Finkelstein Test is the primary diagnostic test.
Elson Test
To assess the integrity of the **Central Slip** of the Extensor Digitorum Communis (EDC) tendon, rupture of which leads to a Boutonniere deformity.