Finger escape sign

System: Neurological Signs · All neurological signs

What it is — and how it is elicited

Asked to hold the fingers extended and pressed together with the palms down, the little finger gradually drifts away from the others.

What a positive finding suggests

Associated with cervical myelopathy affecting the intrinsic muscles of the hand.

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Please note: This page is an educational reference about clinical examination signs. A clinical sign supports — and never replaces — a full clinical evaluation, examination and appropriate testing. A sign being present does not by itself prove a diagnosis, and an absent sign does not rule one out. If you have symptoms that worry you, see a health professional.