Health expert reveals 30-second hand test

A London-based doctor, known as Medifectious on TikTok, has shared a simple hand test to check for dysdiadochokinesis, a condition that affects rapid and alternating movements. To perform the test, place one palm flat and flip the other hand back and forth from the back to the palm. If you struggle to complete this movement, it may indicate neurological issues such as multiple sclerosis, Friedreich’s ataxia, or a cerebellar lesion. The video, which has garnered over 185,000 views, also notes that difficulty performing the test, especially in older adults, could signal a stroke.

Dysdiadochokinesis may be linked to brain tumors and can result from various conditions affecting the cerebellum, including metabolic dysfunction, inflammatory diseases, infections, or inherited disorders like Huntington’s or Parkinson’s disease. Symptoms can involve poor coordination between limbs, difficulty with balance, slowed or rigid movements, and speech challenges. Medical professionals advise seeking evaluation if the test is difficult to perform, as it may indicate a range of brain-related issues.