Physical examination maneuver

Physical Exam

Tinel Test of the Elbow

also known as Hoffmann-Tinel sign
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Video coming September 2026

How to Perform

Lightly tap (percuss) over the ulnar nerve in the groove behind the medial epicondyle of the elbow. A positive test is a tingling or electric sensation radiating into the little finger and ulnar half of the ring finger.

How to Interpret

Showing all 1 finding

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Tinel sign positive at the elbow
Rule in
Not helpfulDerived CI
Rule out
Not helpfulDerived CI
Evidence:Limited

References

  • Beekman R, Schreuder AH, Rozeman CA, Koehler PJ, Uitdehaag BM. The diagnostic value of provocative clinical tests in ulnar neuropathy at the elbow is marginal. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2009 Dec;80(12):1369-1374. doi:10.1136/jnnp.2009.180844. PMID 19553231.
  • Tinel J. Le signe du “fourmillement” dans les lésions des nerfs périphériques. Presse Méd. 1915.

Research last updated September 9, 2026.

Related Diagnoses

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Related Systems / Regions

NeurologicalUpper Extremities

Related Bedside Tests

🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Hand Strength
Rule in:MHCarpal Tunnel Syndrome, NHMalnutrition, IEBrachial Plexopathy +3 more
Rule out:SHCarpal Tunnel Syndrome, ICMalnutrition, IEBrachial Plexopathy +3 more
🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Elbow Strength
Rule in:ICCervical Radiculopathy, NHDistal Biceps Tendon Rupture, IEDistal Triceps Tendon Rupture +1 more
Rule out:NHCervical Radiculopathy, ICDistal Biceps Tendon Rupture, IEDistal Triceps Tendon Rupture +1 more
🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Lateral Epicondylitis Test
aka Cozen test
Rule in:IELateral Epicondylitis
Rule out:IELateral Epicondylitis
🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Medial Epicondylitis Test
aka Golfer's elbow test
Rule in:IEMedial Epicondylitis
Rule out:IEMedial Epicondylitis
🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Monofilament Testing
aka Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test
Rule in:SHPeripheral Neuropathy, MHCarpal Tunnel Syndrome, NHDiabetic Foot Ulcer +1 more
Rule out:SHDiabetic Foot Ulcer, MHCarpal Tunnel Syndrome, MHPeripheral Neuropathy +1 more
🎬Video coming Sept 2026
Phalen Test
Rule in:MHCarpal Tunnel Syndrome
Rule out:MHCarpal Tunnel Syndrome