limbs and trunk

Last reviewed 12/2022

The standard scheme of examining limbs and trunk in a neurological examination is:

  • motor system:
    • general inspection:
      • skin
      • posture
      • muscle bulk
      • abnormal movement
      • fasciculations
    • tone
  • power:
      • test power for different movements
      • plantar flexion and dorsiflexion can be tested by the patient walking on tip toes and on his heels.
    • reflexes
  • coordination:
      • finger nose test
      • rapid alternating movements
      • hand shake
      • foot tap, etc.
  • sensory system:
    • light touch
    • pin prick
    • cold
    • vibration
    • joint position sense:
      • especially distally
      • stereognosis, graphaesthesia