6. GALS screen Flashcards
What does GALS stand for?
Gait
Arms
Legs
Spine
Recall 3 elements of gait that need to be observed in the GALS screen
Smoothness of movement
Stride length
Ability to turn quickly
Recall 3 elements of “arms” that need to be observed in the GALS screen
Extension at elbows
Examine shoulder joints
Examine hands
Recall 3 elements of “legs” that need to be observed in the GALS screen
Knee/foot deformity?
Flexion of hip/knee
Knee swelling?
MTP joint synovitis?
Recall a key thing to look for when assessing the spine in a GALS screen
Extent of lumbar lordosis
What 3 things must be considered when a joint appears to be abnormal in a GALS screen
Inflammation
Irreversible damage
Mechanical defect
What are the signs of irreversible joint damage?
Malalignment of articulating bones
Crepitus
Give 2 examples of mechanical defects at the knee joint
Knee-locking
Instability
How many joints must be damaged in order to indicate polyarthritis?
> 4
What name is given to arthritis of 2-4 joints
Oligoarthritis
Describe the spinal involvement in rheumatoid arthritis
Only atlanto-axial joint as this is only synovial joint in spine
Recall 2 features of diagnostic importance to also look for outside of GALS when assessing for connective tissue disease
Subcutaneous nodules
Malar (butterfly) rash
Give 2 examples of enthesis
Platar fasciitis
Achilles tendinitis
Define arthritis
Definite inflammation of a joint
What sign is essential for a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis?
clinical evidence of swelling and inflammation
Define arthralgia
Refers to pain within a joint without any demonstrable inflammation
What name is given to a partial dislocation of a joint?
Subluxation
In which joint is subluxation most common?
MCP
What is a varus deformity?
Distal part of lower limb directed towards midline
What is a valgus deformity?
Distal part of lower limb directed away from midline
Give an example of a valgus deformity
Hallux valgus (bunion)
What are gout crystals caused by and made up of?
Cause: Hyperuracaemia
Composition: monosodium urate
Where does gouty arthritis most commonly affect?
MTP joints
Describe the progression of gouty arthritis
Usually resolves within 3-10 days
