TINEL'S SIGN

TEST POSITIONING

The client can sit or lie supine.

ACTION

The therapist gently taps the cervical area near Erb's point.

Erb's point can be found anterior to the transverse process of C6, approximately 2 cm superior to the location of the clavicle.

POSITIVE FINDING

A subjective reporting of a change in sensation to the upper extremity on the ipsilateral side resulting in increased pain or absent/diminished sensation is positive, indicating brachial plexus pathology.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/COMMENTS

This area is believed to be where the proximal portion of the brachial plexus is most superficial.

A positive finding should be combined with a complete cervical nerve root assessment prior to any involved pathology to the brachial plexus.