Upper Limb Examination Flashcards
What are the steps in upper limb examination?
- General observation
- Inspection
- Tone
- Power
- Reflexes
- Co-ordination
- Sensation
- Function
What should you look for on general observation in upper limb examination?
Clues such as wheelchair, orthoses or splints, helmet, or dysmorphic features
In what position should you inspect the upper limbs?
Child standing
What should you inspect for in upper limb examination?
- Posture
- Contractures
- Muscle bulk. wasting, and (pseudo)hypertrophy
- Involuntary muscles and fasciculations
- Scars
- Limb shortening
How should you assess tone in upper limb examination?
Whilst holding onto their hand passively, move their arm in unexpected, irregular movements
What nerve root provides shoulder abduction?
C5
What nerve root provides shoulder adduction?
C7 and 8
What nerve root provides elbow flexion?
C5 and 6
What nerve root provides elbow extension?
C7 and 8
How should you assess power in the hands?
- Squeeze my fingers
- Spread your fingers out wide
What reflexes should be tested in upper limb examination?
- Biceps
- Triceps
- Brachioradialis
What nerves are involved in the biceps reflex?
C5 and 6
What nerves are involved in the triceps reflex?
C7 and 8
What nerves are involved in the brachioradialis reflex?
C5 and 6
How should you test for co-ordination in upper limb examination?
- Finger nose test
- Hand tapping
