What is the Piano Key Test?

The piano key test is a clinical technique to assess the stability of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) and the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) of the wrist. It's effective for diagnosing TFCC tears and DRUJ instability.

To conduct the test, the examiner stabilizes the distal radius with one hand and uses the other hand to grasp the head of the ulna between the thumb and index finger. The examiner then depresses the ulnar head anteriorly, similar to pressing a piano key. A positive result is indicated by excessive movement or discomfort, suggesting instability or injury of the DRUJ or the FCC.

Printable Piano Key Test

Download this Piano Key Test guide to accurately diagnose distal radioulnar joint instability in your patients.

How to use our Piano Key Test template

Our Piano Key Test is designed to streamline your clinical documentation. Follow these steps to get started:

Step 1: Download the resource

Download our Piano Key Test template from our website or via the link on this page. It's also available in the Carepatron app.

Step 2: Familiarize yourself with the template

Take some time to explore the different sections of our Piano Key Test template. Familiarize yourself with the layout and structure so you can efficiently complete your documentation.

Step 3: Explain how it works to your patient

Before beginning the Piano Key Test, explain to your patient what it is and how it will help you assess their  DRUJ.

Step 4: Conduct the test

Use the instructions in the template to perform the Piano Key Test on your patient. Make sure to record all relevant details and any abnormalities.

Step 5: Share with colleagues, if necessary

If you need a second opinion on your assessment, you can easily share your completed Piano Key Test template with colleagues via email or within our Carepatron app.

Piano Key Sign Test example (sample)

Careparton has created a completed sample Piano Key Test template to show you how to use our handy resource for your practice. This sample is for educational purposes only and should not be used for official testing.

Download this free Piano Key Test example here 

Piano Key Sign Test example (sample)

Benefits of using our template

Here are some of the benefits of using our Piano Key Test template:

Easy clinical documentation

Our Piano Key Test template is specifically designed for clinical documentation. It provides a clear and concise format to record the results of the test, making it easy for healthcare professionals to document their findings accurately.

Time-saving

With our Piano Key Test example, you don't have to start from scratch when documenting your patient's results. Our template includes all the necessary sections and formatting, saving you valuable time and effort.

Customizable and fully digital

Our Piano Key Test template is fully customizable, allowing you to add or remove sections based on your specific needs. It is also digital and can be easily filled out using any device, making it convenient for both in-person and remote assessments.

Why use Carepatron as your assessment software?

Carepatron stands at the forefront of clinical documentation software, offering state-of-the-art solutions that streamline the recording and analysis of essential tests like the Piano Key Test. Our telehealth platform is engineered to enhance operational efficiency, ensuring that every piece of data is captured accurately and is readily accessible. This precision is critical in forming a correct diagnosis and crafting effective treatment plans.

By integrating Carepatron into your practice, you benefit from a system that supports seamless collaboration among healthcare teams. Our therapy practice management software facilitates a shared understanding of patient assessments, allowing for coordinated care and timely interventions. Additionally, Carepatron's user-friendly interface simplifies complex data management tasks, allowing clinicians to spend more time with patients and less on paperwork.

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When should the Piano Key Test be used?
When should the Piano Key Test be used?

Commonly asked questions

When should the Piano Key Test be used?

This test is recommended for patients presenting with symptoms of distal radioulnar joint stability or as a diagnostic tool following wrist trauma or surgical intervention.

How does the Piano Key Test help in clinical practice?

The test provides valuable insights into the structural integrity of the distal radioulnar joint and the triangular fibrocartilage complex, aiding in accurately diagnosing and managing related conditions.

What are the procedures for performing the Piano Key Test?

To perform the Piano Key Test, the clinician should have the patient seated with the forearm placed on a stable surface. The clinician will then firmly stabilize the patient’s forearm with one hand while using the other hand to apply pressure to the distal ulna, pushing it dorsally. A positive test is indicated by excessive dorsal displacement of the ulnar head and may cause pain or discomfort for the patient.

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