Spinal cord objective assessment

Question 1

Outline the key components of an objective assessment of the spinal cord.

Answer 1

Observation- Posture, deviations, gait and function
AROM with overpressure
Muscle tests for strength and length
Neurological tests - neuro conductivity and neuro dynamics
Joint tests- PPIVMS and PAIVMS
Soft tissue palpation
Special tests for different spinal regions

Question 2

Explain the ideal posture

Answer 2

Ideal alignment which centres over BOS
Least amount of stress on joints an soft tissue
Low muscle effort
Head held high with the nose and chin in line with the sternum.
Look up image of perfect posture for better understanding.

Question 3

What are the 3 most common postural changes?

Draw and describe them.

Answer 3

Kyphotic Lordotic- pelvis anteriorly tilted, with increased lordosis, knees hyperextended, ankle joint slightly plantar flexed, anterior abdominals long and weak, strong short lower back and hip flexors.

Flat back - loss of lordosis, pelvis in posterior tilt, hip and knee joint hyperextended, forward head posture with increased thoracic flexion, hamstrings and abdominals short and strong.

Sway back- Longer kyphosis, pelvis must anterior part of the body, hip joint moved forward to posture line, lower lumbar area flattens, pelvis neutral or in posterior tilt, hip and knee joint hyperextended, if patient favours to stand on one leg pelvis will be titled to one side, external obliques and upper back extensors long and weak and hamstrings short and strong