In this article, we will discuss about the Phalen’s test. So, let’s get started.
Phalen’s Test
The objective is to diagnose Carpal tunnel syndrome
(1) Raise the arms to shoulder level
(2) Bring both the dorsum of the hand closer to each other (as shown in the picture below)
(3) Hold the wrist in the forced flexion position for 30-60 seconds
Positive test elicits tingling and numbness along the median nerve distribution area i.e thumb, index finger, middle finger, and lateral half of the ring finger.
The sensitivity and specificity of the Phalen test are 67.2% and 92.9% (range between 51-91% and 33-93% respectively). Therefore it should be used in adjunct with other diagnostic tool for proper screening of carpal tunnel syndrome.
