Which maneuver evaluates thoracic outlet syndrome by assessing the radial pulse with the head rotated toward the affected side?

Which maneuver evaluates thoracic outlet syndrome by assessing the radial pulse with the head rotated toward the affected side?

• A. Spurling test
• B. Phalen
• C. Hawkins-Kennedy
• D. Adson maneuver

Answer: (D)

The Adson maneuver focuses on provoking compression at the thoracic outlet to assess vascular involvement. When the head is turned toward the affected side and the patient takes a deep breath, the scalene muscles and first rib can narrow the outlet through which the subclavian artery travels. If the radial pulse weakens or disappears on that side (and/or symptoms are reproduced), it suggests vascular compression consistent with thoracic outlet syndrome. This contrasts with other tests: Spurling assesses cervical nerve root irritation, Phalen and its variants test carpal tunnel syndrome, and Hawkins-Kennedy screens for subacromial impingement. The Adson maneuver is specifically about provoking vascular compromise at the thoracic outlet.

The Adson maneuver focuses on provoking compression at the thoracic outlet to assess vascular involvement. When the head is turned toward the affected side and the patient takes a deep breath, the scalene muscles and first rib can narrow the outlet through which the subclavian artery travels. If the radial pulse weakens or disappears on that side (and/or symptoms are reproduced), it suggests vascular compression consistent with thoracic outlet syndrome. This contrasts with other tests: Spurling assesses cervical nerve root irritation, Phalen and its variants test carpal tunnel syndrome, and Hawkins-Kennedy screens for subacromial impingement. The Adson maneuver is specifically about provoking vascular compromise at the thoracic outlet.