Musculo-Skeletal Exam 1

Question 1

What is the structure used when screening for an MSK problem?

Answer 1

3 screening questions to ask

then a 2 minute screening examination - GALS

Question 2

What does GALS stand for?

Answer 2

Gait

Arms

Legs

Spine

Question 3

What are the 3 screening questions to ask in an MSK exam?

Answer 3

• Do you have any pain or stiffness in your muscles, joints or back?
• can you completely dress yourself without any difficulty?
• can you walk up and down the stairs without any difficulty?

Question 4

What are the 7 areas that must be covered in an MSK history?

Answer 4

Pain:

• using SOCRATES

Stiffness

Joint swelling

Patterns of joints affected:

• number of affected joints
• large or small joints
• symmetry

acute or chronic:

• something is chronic if it lasts > 6 weeks

associated systemic symptoms

impact on functioning/daily life

Question 5

What are the basic principles of examination of the hands and wrists?

Answer 5

1. Look
2. Feel
3. Move
4. Function

Question 6

What types of features would you see when looking in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer 6

• Ulnar deviation
• boutonniere deformity
• swan neck deformity
• z-shaped thumb
• MCP subluxation