How to Administer the Phalen's Test for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The development of carpal tunnel syndrome is frequently the result of prolonged exposure to a risky work environment that puts undue strain on the tendons and nerves in the carpal tunnel of your wrist. The Phalen's test is one of the more common physical examinations used by doctors to determine if a patient is suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome. Read on to learn more about how to administer the Phalen's test for carpal tunnel syndrome.

Things You'll Need

• Physician

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Instructions

• 1

  Determine if the symptoms you are experiencing might be caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome is generally characterized by the presence of one of more of these symptoms: hand weakness, an inability to hold objects, loss of feeling in the fingers and general soreness or pain in the fingers, hand, wrist or forearm.

• 2

  Call your doctor. Explain your symptoms, and set up an appointment to come in to have your physician administer the Phalen's test.

• 3

  Anticipate that you will be asked to fill out a questionnaire when you arrive at the doctor's office for your appointment. The purpose of the questionnaire is to determine what risk factors for carpal tunnel syndrome you are exposed to on a regular basis.

• 4

  Have your doctor run through a demonstration of the Phalen's test. The test involves bending the wrists to determine a sensation threshold. You will perform the test on yourself, under the doctor's supervision.

• 5

  Position your hands to perform the test. Begin by holding the backs of your hands together, or by holding your forearms upright. There may be slight variations on the beginning posture, which your physician will show you.

• 6

  Bend your wrists, to the threshold demonstrated by your doctor.

• 7

  Hold this position for one minute.

• 8

  Tell your doctor if your fingers go numb after (or before) the one minute mark. Your doctor may administer further tests to confirm a diagnosis.