Steps in the Assessment of Neuromuscular Conditions

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Every outpatient clinical encounter should follow the order below:

1. History

  • Patient Health History form and charting
  • Patient Interview

2. Inspection

  • Inspect the patient’s skin, posture, , body language.
  • Inspect the affected area for swelling , heat, a loss of function, redness and pain (SHARP)

3. Palpation/ Auscultation

4. Motion

  • Active Range of Motion (AROM), Passive Range of Motion (PROM)

5. Neurovascular Screen

6. Referred Pain

  • Visceral, Somatic, Radicular

7. Special Tests

  • Orthopedic Tests, Diagnostic Imaging etc