How do You Self-Test for Carpal Tunnel?

The easiest way to self-test for carpal tunnel is to perform three quick exams used by doctors: the Phalen Test, Tinel Test, and Durkan Test. Bend your wrist downward for 60 seconds (Phalen), tap over the wrist crease (Tinel), and press firmly on the center of the wrist for 30 seconds (Durkan). If any of these cause tingling, numbness, or pain in your thumb, index, middle, or ring finger, there’s a strong chance you have carpal tunnel syndrome instead of another disorder.


Self-testing at home can give you an early indication of whether you might be experiencing carpal tunnel syndrome and whether it’s worth seeking professional evaluation. Using the three simple tests commonly used by clinicians — the Phalen Test, Tinel Test and Durkan Test — you can get a clearer sense of whether your symptoms are likely due to carpal tunnel or something else. The following steps are adapted from the home-self test guidance on CarpalRx. 



First Step: Prepare your space


Settle into a quiet room where you won’t be disturbed. Having a helper is optional and can make the results more accurate. Avoid distractions so you can clearly focus on how your hand and wrist feel during each test. 



Test 1 – Phalen Test


  1. Extend your fingers straight and flex your wrist gently (bending it downwards) using your other hand (or a helper) to assist.
  2. Hold the position for one minute. 
  3. Ask yourself: Do symptoms (numbness, tingling, pain or “electric shock” sensations) appear or get worse during the hold? Record “yes” or “no.” 


What positive can mean: If you experience increased tingling or numbness, it points toward involvement of the median nerve in the wrist (the hallmark of carpal tunnel).



Test 2 – Tinel Test


  1. Keep your hand straight (in a neutral position). 
  2. With your opposite finger (or a helper’s finger) tap the skin over the wrist crease (at the front of your wrist) fairly firmly but not painfully. Continue tapping left to right for about 15 seconds. 
  3. Ask: Does the tapping produce a tingling or “pins-and-needles” sensation in your hand or fingers? Write “yes” or “no.” 


Interpretation: A “yes” suggests irritation or compression of the median nerve at the wrist, consistent with CTS.



Test 3 – Durkan Test


Keep your hand straight and use your opposite thumb (or a helper’s) to apply firm pressure in the space between the two bumps at the base of your palm (just proximal to the wrist crease). 


Hold the pressure for about 30 seconds. 


Ask: Do your symptoms appear or worsen (numbness, tingling or pain) during the hold? Record “yes” or “no.” 


Why it matters: This test directly stresses the carpal tunnel region and the median nerve; a positive result strengthens the likelihood of carpal tunnel syndrome.



What your results mean


  • If you answered “yes” to any one of the three tests: you are likely dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome. 


  • If you answered “no” to all three tests: your symptoms may more likely be due to another condition — one prime example being Flexor Tendonitis (or tendon inflammation in the wrist/forearm). In this case, another self-test (the Flexor Percussion test) can help assess that possibility. 



Next steps


If your self-testing suggests carpal tunnel syndrome, it’s wise to move quickly toward effective treatment. Even in mild cases, early intervention can prevent advancement. And if you suspect moderate or severe symptoms (frequent wake-ups at night, weakness, dropping things, etc.), you’ll want to consult a specialist or consider myofascial massage, stretching exercises, and night bracing sooner rather than later.


If your tests were negative but symptoms persist, consider alternate causes (tendonitis, nerve irritation elsewhere, etc.) and seek professional input.



Important caveats


  • This home self-test is not a substitute for evaluation by a qualified health professional.
  • Many factors (posture, repetitive motion, underlying health conditions) can affect wrist/nerve health.
  • Even if you get a negative result but have persistent symptoms (especially numbness, weakness or waking at night), you should seek medical advice.


By following these clear, doctor-familiar testing steps, you can get an early read on whether your hands and wrists are exhibiting signs of carpal tunnel syndrome. Early awareness empowers you to take action — whether that means adjusting your work habits, starting wrist-safe practices, or reaching out for targeted help.