Which option describes the standard hold time and outcome for Phalen's test?

• A. One minute; numbness or tingling
• B. Thirty seconds; numbness
• C. Two minutes; pain
• D. Five minutes; numbness

Answer: (A)

Phalen's test works by placing the wrists in maximal flexion to compress the median nerve within the carpal tunnel. Holding the wrists in this position for about one minute is the standard duration used. If the median nerve is irritated or compressed, numbness or tingling will be felt in the distribution of the median nerve (thumb, index, middle finger, and the radial side of the ring finger). This combination—one minute of sustained flexion producing numbness or tingling—is why that option is the best description. Shorter holds may not provoke symptoms, while much longer holds aren’t the standard practice; pain can occur but numbness or tingling is the typical positive sign for this test.