Phalen maneuver

Phalen's maneuver or Phalen's test is a diagnostic test used in the field of medicine to identify carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The test was named after the American orthopedic surgeon, George S. Phalen.

Procedure

The Phalen's maneuver is performed by having the patient flex their wrists and press the backs of their hands against each other for about 60 seconds. This position will compress the median nerve in the carpal tunnel. If the patient experiences tingling, numbness, or pain in the fingers within 60 seconds, the test is considered positive for carpal tunnel syndrome.

Accuracy

The accuracy of Phalen's maneuver in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome varies among studies. Some studies suggest that it has a sensitivity ranging from 51% to 91% and a specificity ranging from 33% to 86%. This means that while the test can be useful in diagnosing CTS, it may also produce false positives and negatives.

Comparison with other tests

Phalen's maneuver is often compared with Tinel's sign, another test used to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome. Some studies suggest that Phalen's maneuver is more accurate than Tinel's sign, while others suggest the opposite. Both tests are commonly used in clinical practice.

See also

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Tinel's sign
• George S. Phalen

References

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