Tests For Lower Limb Myotomes

Question 1

Lower limb strength / myotome test for:

L5), S1, (S2

Answer 1

Standing:
(Gastrocnemius and soleus)

• Single heel raise (x 5)

Question 2

Lower limb strength / myotome test for:

L1), L2, (L3

Answer 2

• Iliopsoas
• Supine
• Resisted hip flexion at 90 degrees (test unilateral)

L2 hip to you

Question 3

Lower Limb strength / myotome test:

L3, (L4)

Answer 3

• Quadriceps:
• Supine
• Knee Extension, just short of end of range (your thigh or arm under patients knee)
• Test Unilateral
• L3 all about the knee

Question 4

Lower Limb strength / myotome test:

L4, (L5)

Answer 4

Tibialis anterior

• Supine
• Both feet turned ‘up and in’ (Inversion and dorsi-flexion)
• Uni lateral or Bi-lateral

L4 foot away from the floor

Question 5

Lower Limb strength / myotome test

• L5, (S1)

Answer 5

• Extensor Hallucis Longus
• Supine
• Extension of left and right big toes (MTP extension)
• Test Unilateral or Bilateral

L5 big toe alive!

Question 6

Lower limb strength / myotome test

• S2

Answer 6

• Long toe flexors
• Supine
• Curl toes (around therapist’s finger)
• Uni or Bi-lateral

S2 scoop the poop!