Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) Practice Exam

What does the Bunnell-Littler test assess?

1. Flexor tendon integrity

2. Intrinsic tightness of the fingers

3. Joint mobility of the thumb

4. Carpal tunnel syndrome presence

The correct answer is: Intrinsic tightness of the fingers

The Bunnell-Littler test is specifically designed to assess intrinsic tightness in the fingers. This assessment helps in differentiating between intrinsic tightness and other factors that may limit finger motion, such as extrinsic tightness or joint contractures. During the test, the examiner manipulates the fingers and evaluates the range of motion while considering the position of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint to observe how it affects flexion at the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. If the PIP joint flexes less when the MCP joint is held in extension compared to when it is allowed to flex, this indicates tightness in the intrinsic muscles, confirming the presence of intrinsic tightness. The other options refer to different assessments or conditions. For instance, evaluating flexor tendon integrity is done through specific tendon tests that assess the function of the flexor tendons. Joint mobility of the thumb involves testing the range of motion at the carpometacarpal joint and other related joints, which is separate from the intrinsic assessment. Carpal tunnel syndrome is diagnosed through tests that assess median nerve compression, which does not relate to the Bunnell-Littler test's function. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the specific