Flick Maneuver Test

Published July 2, 2026 Read time 1 min read Readers 4
Flick Maneuver Test

What is the "Flick Maneuver Test" used for?

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

How to perform the "Flick Maneuver Test"?

  • The patient is seated or standing and complains of paresthesia in the hand in the median nerve distribution
  • The patient is asked to vigorously shake the hands or “flick” the wrists

What is the positive result?

  • A resolution of the symptoms after flicking or shaking the hands is considered a positive test for median nerve pathology primarily in the carpal tunnel.

Test Accuracy

  • Sensitivity: 37%
  • Specificity: 74%

References

  • Hansen PA, Micklesen P, Robinson LR. Clinical utility of the flick maneuver in diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome. Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2004 May;83(5):363-7. doi: 10.1097/01.phm.0000124439.14757.99. PMID: 15100625.