Examination technique	Abnormal result	Possible pathology
While the patient's hand is in the resting position look for fingers that are flexed or extended	Flexed finger	Disrupted extensor tendon (see Figure 6 right)
	Extended finger	Disrupted flexor tendon (see Figure 6 left)
While patient flexes fingers toward the palm, check that tips of fingers point toward the scaphoid (see Figure 7)	Fingers extend normally but overlap when flexed	Fracture with rotational deformity of finger
Check for changes in skin color or ability to sweat	Part or all of finger has a different skin color (blanched or hyperemic) or lacks ability to sweat	Digital nerve injury
Check capillary refill after applying pressure to distal fingertip or nail bed	Blanching lasts more than two seconds	Microvascular compromise
Check two-point discrimination in distal fingertip using blunt calipers or a paper clip	Patient cannot distinguish two points at least 5 mm apart	Neurologic compromise