Modification of Phalen's wrist-flexion test

J Neurosci Methods. 2008 May 15;170(1):156-7. doi: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2007.12.019. Epub 2008 Jan 11.

Abstract

Phalen's test, with more than 100 degrees of elbow flexion, is not always comfortable for patients with elbow pathology. Therefore, we suggest a modification of the test with the patient having both arms resting on a pillow or arm-holders in a relaxed position, the hands floating at the end, and the examiner passively flexing (or reversed: extending) the hands up to 90 degrees.

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Elbow / anatomy & histology
  • Elbow / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Range of Motion, Articular
  • Wrist / anatomy & histology
  • Wrist / physiology*