Which test is used for diagnosing tenosynovitis in cases of wrist pain?

Which test is used for diagnosing tenosynovitis in cases of wrist pain?

• A. Phalen test
• B. Tinel's sign
• C. Finkelstein test
• D. Rotator cuff test

Answer: (C)

The Finkelstein test is specifically utilized to diagnose tenosynovitis, particularly De Quervain's tenosynovitis, which affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. During the test, the patient makes a fist with the thumb tucked inside the fingers, and then the wrist is ulnar deviated. If this maneuver reproduces pain along the radial side of the wrist, it indicates irritation of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons, confirming the presence of tenosynovitis. This makes the Finkelstein test very effective for assessing conditions like De Quervain's, distinguishing it from other tests that may evaluate different structures or conditions in the wrist and hand. For instance, the Phalen test and Tinel's sign are primarily used to assess for carpal tunnel syndrome, while rotator cuff tests are used in shoulder evaluations. Thus, the focus on the specific tendons and the pain elicited during the Finkelstein test makes it the most appropriate choice for diagnosing tenosynovitis in wrist pain scenarios.

The Finkelstein test is specifically utilized to diagnose tenosynovitis, particularly De Quervain's tenosynovitis, which affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. During the test, the patient makes a fist with the thumb tucked inside the fingers, and then the wrist is ulnar deviated. If this maneuver reproduces pain along the radial side of the wrist, it indicates irritation of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons, confirming the presence of tenosynovitis.

This makes the Finkelstein test very effective for assessing conditions like De Quervain's, distinguishing it from other tests that may evaluate different structures or conditions in the wrist and hand. For instance, the Phalen test and Tinel's sign are primarily used to assess for carpal tunnel syndrome, while rotator cuff tests are used in shoulder evaluations. Thus, the focus on the specific tendons and the pain elicited during the Finkelstein test makes it the most appropriate choice for diagnosing tenosynovitis in wrist pain scenarios.