In the Frinkelstein Test, what is the method of assessment?

The Frinkelstein Test is specifically designed to assess for De Quervain's tenosynovitis, a condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. The proper method for conducting this test involves ulnar deviating the wrist while the patient makes a fist with the thumb tucked inside. This maneuver places stress on the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis tendons, which are enclosed in the first dorsal compartment of the wrist. If the test elicits pain along the wrist, particularly over the first dorsal compartment, it indicates a positive result for De Quervain's tenosynovitis.

In contrast, stabilizing the forearm while extending the wrist does not specifically target the structures of interest in De Quervain's tenosynovitis. Compressing the nail bed does not relate to the condition being assessed and is instead used for different diagnostic purposes. Flicking the distal phalanx of the thumb isn't a recognized method for assessing this condition, and does not elicit the specific symptoms associated with De Quervain's tenosynovitis. Therefore, the correct approach focuses on the ulnar deviation of the wrist with the thumb tucked in to effectively