Hand and Wrist Examination

Previous | Next

Introduction

The purpose of this unit is to have a web-based, readily accessible learning tool for medical students and residents to learn and improve musculoskeletal exam of the hand and wrist.

This module is also for U-M Department of Family Medicine Residents on the SMO1 rotation.

Components of the unit include:

  • A video showing the complete hand and wrist exam

  • Lists of common causes of hand and wrist pain

  • A brief synopsis for each diagnosis of hand or wrist pain

  • A quick reference guide to specific exam maneuvers

  • Photos and drawings to assist with visualization of hand and wrist anatomy

  • Review of documentation of a wrist exam

  • Links to further references

Objectives

Knowledge:

  • To understand the basic elements of musculoskeletal examinations of the hand and wrist.

  • To understand differential diagnosis of common clinical presentations of hand or wrist problems.

  • To know how to differentiate between normal and abnormal assessment findings.

Skills:

  • To demonstrate familiarity with the tasks needed to perform a complete hand or wrist exam.

  • To be able to generate a differential diagnosis of problems based on hand or wrist exam and history.

Attitudes:

  • To express confidence in evaluating for musculoskeletal hand and wrist complaints.

Disclaimer: The University of Michigan Health System Web site does not provide specific medical advice and does not endorse any medical or professional service obtained through information provided on this site or any links to this site.

Use of the UMHS web site does not replace medical consultation with a qualified health or medical professional to meet the health and medical needs of you or others.

While the content of the UMHS web site is frequently updated, medical information changes rapidly and therefore, some information may be out of date, and/or contain inaccuracies or typographical errors.

Note: This module was originally developed by U-M Department of Family Medicine faculty member Tara A. Master-Hunter, M.D., in 2007. It is also maintained by Dr. Master-Hunter. Last updated: October 2013.

Except where otherwise noted, content on this site is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 License. Details and Exceptions. © 2013 University of Michigan Department of Family Medicine.

Previous | Next