Testing the Nerves in the Hand

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Median Nerve

Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Thenar eminence
o   Abduction of the thumb
o   Abductor policis brevis
  • Sensory of palmar surface of the lateral (radial) 3 ½ digits
 

Ulnar Nerve

  • Hypothenar eminence
  • Adducts the first finger – so try to test adduction of the finger alone
  • Sensory – ulnar 1 ½ digits

Radial Nerve

  • Extension of the wrist – ask the patient to cock the wrist back
  • Dorsal surface of lateral (radial) 3 ½ digits

References

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Dr Tom Leach

Dr Tom Leach MBChB DCH EMCert(ACEM) FRACGP currently works as a GP and an Emergency Department CMO in Australia. He is also a Clinical Associate Lecturer at the Australian National University, and is studying for a Masters of Sports Medicine at the University of Queensland. After graduating from his medical degree at the University of Manchester in 2011, Tom completed his Foundation Training at Bolton Royal Hospital, before moving to Australia in 2013. He started almostadoctor whilst a third year medical student in 2009. Read full bio

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