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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (cont.)

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Media file 1: The shaded area represents the area usually affected by carpal tunnel syndrome. As you can see, it can and usually does involve half of your ring finger as well as your palm and first 2 fingers. In some people, a part of the thumb may also be involved. Photograph courtesy of Christopher-Patrick Photography, Winston-Salem, NC.

Media type: Photo

Media file 2: Phalen sign. Hold your hands back-to-back as shown with your wrist bent at 90 degrees. If you develop pain, numbness, or tingling within 60 seconds, you may have carpal tunnel syndrome. Photograph courtesy of Christopher-Patrick Photography, Winston-Salem, NC.

Media type: Photo

Media file 3: Tinel sign. Have someone hold your hand with your wrist bent slightly back. With the other hand, your assistant should tap on your wrist as shown. If you experience pain, numbness, or tingling while they are tapping, you may have carpal tunnel syndrome. You can also perform this on yourself by tapping on your wrist as shown in the picture. Having someone else bend your wrist back slightly is a little more effective. Photograph courtesy of Christopher-Patrick Photography, Winston-Salem, NC.