Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Stemmer's sign is primarily characterized by the thickening of skin over the proximal phalanges, which is an important clinical finding associated with lymphedema. This sign is significant because its presence indicates that the edema is the result of lymphatic impairment rather than other causes, such as venous edema. In a clinical setting, when Stemmer's sign is elicited, it shows significant involvement in the lymphatic system, commonly seen in conditions such as lymphedema, and serves as an important diagnostic tool for therapists and healthcare professionals.

The other choices reflect symptoms and findings associated with different conditions but do not pertain specifically to Stemmer's sign. For instance, pain during passive extension relates more to potential tendon or nerve issues, while weakness in thumb opposition is often connected to median nerve dysfunction. Decreased range of motion in the wrist may result from various injuries or arthritis but is not indicative of Stemmer's sign. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning in hand therapy.

Ask an Examzify Tutor