inspect as if you have no
hands
Finite measr. readily reprod. regard. of individ. collect. info.
objective data
Initial data collect. to compare w/future evaluations
baseline measures
What is the importance of past medical history?
Establishes preinjury health baseline/identifies conditions that can influence current problem.
Info. regard. how condition impacts patient’s ability to perform relevant tasks
functional assessment
What is the role of the non-injured limb in the examination process?
reference for comparison during examination.
What is the purpose of joint/ muscle function assessment?
Identifies impairments relating to available ROM, strength, and pain with movement.
What do joint stability tests evaluate?
End-feel, hypermobility/hypomobility, and pain.
What are selective tissue tests used for?
Assess pathology of individual ligaments, joint capsules, and musculotendinous units.
What does the neurological test evaluate?
Sensory, reflex, and motor function.
What does vascular screening assess?
Blood circulation to/from involved extremity.
What are the goals of the physical examination?
Rule out differential diagnosis, determine clinical diagnosis, and identify impairments and functional limitations.
What is the sequence for palpation?
Bones, ligaments, muscles, and tendons.
What is active range of motion (AROM)?
Joint motion prod. by patient contracting muscles
What does passive range of motion (PROM) involve?
Clinician moves the joint through its available movement and pain patterns.
What does the grading system for ligamentous laxity include?
- Grade I: Firm (normal) * Grade II: Soft * Grade III: Empty.
What is the purpose of stress testing?
Assess joint play and determine degree of movement.
What does neurological screening evaluate?
Sensation, motor function, and deep tendon reflexes.
What does sensory testing assess?
Areas of skin innervated by a spinal nerve root.
What is deep tendon reflex (DTR)?
Muscle stretched and relaxed, assessed by striking the tendon with a reflex hammer.
What does vascular screening assess?
Blood flow to and from the extremities.
What is the role of evidence in the examination process?
Reduces the number of tests to be performed and increases examination accuracy.
What are the signs of upper motor neuron lesions in reflex testing?
Increased response.
What are the signs of lower motor neuron lesions in reflex testing?
Decreased response.
