Understanding the Tinel’s Test (at the Wrist) Assessment
To assess for nerve irritation, regeneration, or entrapment of the **Median Nerve** at the wrist (**Carpal Tunnel Syndrome**).
Watch How It's Done
How do I start?
Patient is sitting. Wrist is relaxed and held in neutral.
What happens?
The examiner gently and repeatedly **taps over the median nerve** at the wrist, specifically over the carpal tunnel (midline of the wrist).
In Plain English
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
Reproduction of **paresthesia (tingling) or electric shooting pain** in the median nerve distribution (distal to the point of tapping).
Helpful Tip:
The tingling sensation indicates nerve irritation or regenerating nerve fibers.
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.