Lumbar Spine Exam and LL Neuro Exam

Question 1

How might a L5 disc bulge present on LL neuro exam?

Answer 1

Weaken dorsiflexion of the great toe

Change in sensation at the great toe

(no change in LL reflexes)

Question 2

Which myotome do the reflexes of the lower limb test?

Answer 2

Knee: L3/4

Ankle: S1

Babinski: S1

Question 3

What anatomical sites can be used to test each dermatome in the LL?

Answer 3

L2 - Lateral hip

L3 - Knee

L4 - Medial maleolus

L5 - Great toe

S1 - Lateral aspect of sole

Question 4

What is sciatica?

Answer 4

Pain that radiates below the knee and into the foot

Question 5

How might a S1 disc bulge present on LL neuro exam?

Answer 5

Weakened plantarflexion at the ankle

Hypoflexia of the ankle reflex

Change in sensation around the lateral aspect of the foot

Question 6

Which movements predominantly test each myotome from L2-S1?

Answer 6

L2 - Hip flexion

L3 - Knee extension

L4 - Dorsiflexion of the foot

L5 - Great toe dorsiflexion

S1 - Plantarflexion of the foot

Question 7

How might a L4 disc bulge present on LL neuro exam?

Answer 7

Weaken dorsiflexion

Hypoflexia at the knee

Change in sensation around the medial maleolous

Question 8

What is the best movement to test the L5?

Answer 8

Dorsiflexion of the great toe

Question 9

What is the best movement to test the S1 myotome?

Answer 9

Plantar flexion

Question 10

Which nerve roots are examined when testing anal tone?

Answer 10

S2-4

Question 11

What is the FABER’s test for?

Answer 11

SI joint