orthopedic exam Flashcards
1
Q
categories of differential diagnoses in orthopedic exam
A
- Musculoskeletal
- Neurologic
- Metabolic
2
Q
what do we look at in a gait examination
A
- Observe standing and resting
> Symmetrical weight bearing, shifting ?
> Difficulties standing up/lying down? - Steady state gait at a walk and slow trot
> Swing and stance phases
> Front, back and sides
> Listen
» Cadence, abnormal noise (clicking, scuffing, shuffling, etc) - Rule out neurological problems
> Ataxia, hypermetria…
3
Q
what does unilateral forelimb lameness look like?
A
- Head lift when affected leg contacts ground
> “Down on the sound” - Shortened stride (shoulder)
- Circumduction (elbow)
4
Q
what does bilateral forelimb lameness look like?
A
- Stilted gait
- Shortened stride
- “Walk on eggshells” when severe
- Lowered neck and head
5
Q
what does unilateral hindlimb lameness look like?
A
- Hip hike and lowers head when affected leg contacts ground
- Shortened stride
- Lack of amplitude of joints
> Hips, stifles
6
Q
what does bilateral hindlimb lameness look like?
A
- Head lowered, weight shifted on forelimbs
- Stilted gait
- Pelvis swings from side to side
- “Bunny hopping”
7
Q
what is CREPI?
A
- Crepitus, range of motion, effusion, pain, instability
-what we are looking for during an orthopedic exam
8
Q
how do we perform a joint test in the orthopedic exam and what are we looking for?
A
Systematically palpate all joints, muscles and bones:
* Crepitus
* Swelling
* Wounds / inflammation
* Joint range of motion
* Joint laxity
* Pain
9
Q
what do we examine in the orthopedic exam while animal is standing?
A
- Palpate for symmetry
- Swelling
- Joint effusion
- Neck/back pain
- Proprioception …
10
Q
what do we examine in orthopedic exam while patient is recumbent
A
- Start at the toes then move up
- Do not focus on the obvious
> Skip the affected area…for now
> Start with unaffected leg if stressed
> Least amount of restraint needed - All four limbs?
> At least contralateral…
