PHALEN

TEST

​• ​Test positioning

The client sits or stands with the dorsal aspect of both hands in full contact so that both wrists are maximally flexed.

​• Action

A steady compressive force is applied through the client's forearms so that the client's wrists are maximally flexed for 1 minute.

​• Positive finding

Numbness and tingling in the median nerve distribution of the fingers (ie thumb, index finger middle finger and lateral aspect of the ring finger are indicative of carpal tunnel syndrome secondary to median nerve compression.

​• Special considerations & comments

Pain in the wrist area without complaints of radiating pain distally toward the hand and fingers may be indicative of carpal bone pathology.