Screening for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The purpose of screening is early diagnosis and treatment. Screening tests are usually administered to people without current symptoms, but who may be at high risk for certain diseases or conditions.

History and physical are used to screen for carpal tunnel syndrome.

Electrodiagnostic testing is the most accepted test for carpal tunnel syndrome.

At this time, there are no widely accepted special screening tests or screening guidelines to detect carpal tunnel syndrome before symptoms begin.

References

Bilkis S, Loveman DM, Eldridge JA, et al. Modified Phalen's test as an aid in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome. Arthritis Care Res . 2012 Feb;64(2):287-9.

Carpal tunnel syndrome. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://dynamed.ebscohost.com/about/about-us . Updated October 8, 2012. Accessed October 23 ,2012.

Fowler JR, Gaughan JP, Ilyas AM. The sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound for the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome: a meta-analysis. Clin Orthop Relat Res . 2011 Apr;469(4):1089-94.

Werner RA, Andary M, Electrodiagnostic evaluation of carpal tunnel syndrome. Muscle Nerve . 2011 Oct;44(4):597-607.

Revision Information

Reviewer: John C. Keel, MD
Review Date: 03/2013
Update Date: 00/31/2013

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.