Professional Development for Health & Safety Experts
CIH Question 08/24/2017 – Ergonomics
Which test might be applicable for an employee with the following symptoms: sharp pain on palmer side of wrist, numbness and tingling in thumb and first three fingers? A. B. C. D.
Phalen’s Test Finklestien’s Test Pinch Test De Quervain’s Test
(Solution on next page)
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Professional Development for Health & Safety Experts
Solution: Phalen’s test is an initial test for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). CTS can present with pain to both the hand and wrist (typically palmer side). Numbness and tingling may be present in the thumb and first three fingers, NOT the pinky finger . CTS is caused from irritation of the medial nerve from often repetitive motion and tasks involving manipulation of the wrist and fingers. Phalen’s test can be performed by holding both wrists in a complete and forced flexion (pushing dorsal surfaces of both hands together) for 30-60 seconds. By doing so, the median nerve is compressed causing burning, tingling, or a numbing sensation in the thumb and first three fingers. Such results indicate a positive test and suggests CTS. The correct solution is A.
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www.BowenEHS.com Copyright © 2017 Bowen EHS – A Division of Bowen Learning Network, Inc.