Wrist Special Tests

Question 1

Wrist Valgus/Varus Stress Test

Answer 1

o Wrist is pulled laterally to test medial structures of wrist
o Wrist is pulled medially to test lateral structures of wrist

Question 2

Phalen’s Test

Answer 2

o Testing for carpal tunnel syndrome
o Both wrists are flexed and dorsal sides are touching
o Held for one minute
o Positive test is tingling in thumb, index, middle or lateral half of ring finger

Question 3

Finkelstein’s Test

Answer 3

o Testing for thumb tendonitis
o Place wrist at edge of treatment table in neutral position
o Active ulnar deviation to check for pain
o Passive ulnar deviation to check for pain
o Grab thumb and passively flex it into the palm looking for pain