TAP OR PERCUSSION TEST

TEST POSITIONING

 

The client may sit or stand with the affected finger extended.

 

The therapist stands in front of the client.

 

ACTION

 

The therapist applies a firm tap to the end of the finger being tested.

 

As an alternative method to tapping the therapist may use a percussion hammer.

POSITIVE FINDING

 

Pain at the site of injury indicates a fracture.

 

The vibration of tapping along the long axis of the bone will exaggerate pain at the fracture site.

 

CONSIDERATIONS & COMMENTS

 

This test should not be performed if there is an obvious deformity.