Froment sign
Last edit by Alaric Steinmetz on
Synonyms: Froment’s sign
The Froment sign refers to compensatory flexion of the distal phalanx of the thumb by the flexor pollicis longus muscle, which occurs when the adductor pollicis muscle is impaired.
Historical background
The Froment sign is named after the French neurologist Jules Froment (1878–1946), who observed the sign in patients with injuries to the ulnar nerve[^1].
Procedure
The Froment sign can be assessed by asking the patient to hold a sheet of paper.
Interpretation
A positive Froment sign may occur with a distal lesion of the Ulnar nerve, as in patients with cubital tunnel syndrome. If the Median nerve is also impaired, the Froment sign may be negative despite a distal ulnar nerve lesion.
