What Tests Are Done to Confirm Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
The classic findings on physical examination for carpal tunnel syndrome are a Tinel’s and Phalen’s test. A Tinel’s sign is performed by tapping the median nerve, where you’ll feel electricity shoot down the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and a portion of your ring finger. A Phalen’s sign is similar, with the wrist held in a flexed position and electricity shooting down the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and a portion of the ring finger. More severe cases have persistent pain that doesn’t go away, even with splinting or therapy. You may also have muscle wasting, which is where the muscles at the base of thumb start to atrophy, or become thinner. An electromyogram (EMG)/ Nerve Conduction Velocity/ (NCV) test is the gold standard for CTS, simply because it links what you’re feeling to what the doctor sees on the physical exam, as well as what the insurance company wants. As a patient or doctor, you can always fudge a little with feelings in your hand. Also, as an individual, you
