Neurological examination

Question 1

Describe how to assess a patient’s Babinski response.

Answer 1

Stroke lateral aspect of the foot (light stroke with
back of patella hammer) - observe toe movement
– Test the unaffected side first then compare the
affected side
Normal/negative response: all toes plantarflex
* Abnormal/positive response: dorsiflexion of
the great toe with downward fanning out of
the remaining toes.

Question 2

Name the joint action for assessing the following myotomes:
a. C4
b. L5

Answer 2

C4- Shoulder girdle elevation
L5- extension of the big toes

Question 3

Define proprioception

Answer 3

the ability to tell body
position in space

Question 4

Assess fine proprioception of the upper limb

Answer 4

Upper limb fine proprioception (thumb)
Proximal stability
– Lateral grip of the distal segment
– Move only the distal segment
– Demonstrate on unaffected side with patient
observing
– Ask patient to close eyes
– Move the segment up and down
– Grade /5

Question 5

Name the dermatomes that run over the following anatomical areas :
Thumb
Medial aspect of the elbow

Answer 5

C6
T1