Diagnosing CTS
Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
In order to properly diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome your doctor will examine your hand for any change in sensation and muscle weakness.
In addition to a physical examination of your hands, there are two non-evasive tests which are commonly used in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome:
Another test used for diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome is an electromyogram or EMG. An EMG is used to measure the electrical activity of your muscles during activity and while at rest. It measures the speed at which the nerves send electrical signals to the brain. If your doctor suspects that you have carpal tunnel syndrome but you do not have symptoms that are typical of carpal tunnel syndrome, he or she may order an EMG.
In addition to the tests mentioned above, your doctor will take into consideration your work and life activities in accurately diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome. Consistent repetitive type motion such as keyboarding can cause or contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome.
If you have been diagnosed with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or any other repetitive stress injuries, contact Donald W. Fohrman & Associates, Ltd., at 800-437-2571 or use our confidential contact form to determine if you are entitled to Workers' Compensation benefits.
In order to properly diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome your doctor will examine your hand for any change in sensation and muscle weakness.
In addition to a physical examination of your hands, there are two non-evasive tests which are commonly used in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome:
- Tinel’s Sign- The median nerve is tapped along the length of the wrist. A positive result is found when the tapping increases the tingling in the fingers.
- Phalen’s Sign- The Phalens test is done when you place your hands back to back and push them together for approximately one minute. This causes compression on the carpal tunnel. If you experience the same symptoms during the test that you usually have, then the test result is positive for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Another test used for diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome is an electromyogram or EMG. An EMG is used to measure the electrical activity of your muscles during activity and while at rest. It measures the speed at which the nerves send electrical signals to the brain. If your doctor suspects that you have carpal tunnel syndrome but you do not have symptoms that are typical of carpal tunnel syndrome, he or she may order an EMG.
In addition to the tests mentioned above, your doctor will take into consideration your work and life activities in accurately diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome. Consistent repetitive type motion such as keyboarding can cause or contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome.
If you have been diagnosed with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or any other repetitive stress injuries, contact Donald W. Fohrman & Associates, Ltd., at 800-437-2571 or use our confidential contact form to determine if you are entitled to Workers' Compensation benefits.