Tinel's sign is used to detect irritation or regeneration of which tissue?

• A. Tendons
• B. Ligaments
• C. Peripheral nerves
• D. Muscles

Answer: (C)

Tinel's sign tests for irritation or regeneration of peripheral nerves. By tapping directly over a nerve, you may elicit tingling or a "pins and needles" sensation distally in the nerve’s distribution if the nerve is irritated or healing after injury. This makes it a test of nerve tissue rather than tendons, ligaments, or muscles, which don’t produce that radiating paresthetic response when tapped. Clinically, it’s used in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and other neuropathies to indicate nerve involvement and potential regeneration along the course of the nerve.