MS. Bowman

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Many evaluation models
The model you use should be systematic and follow a logical process

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H-history
I/O-inspection/observation
P-palpation
S-special tests

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Most important part of the evaluation process
Rest of the eval is used to confirm findings from history
Open-ended questions should be used instead of simple yes and no questions
What happened?
Where is the pain?
How long have you had the issue?
Have you injured this body part before?
How did it feel when you were injured?
Change in symptoms
Description of symptoms

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Provides reference for symmetry, muscle tone, structure, etc
Observe gait and the way the patient is carrying/holding his body
Look for:
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Swelling
Deformity
Color
Texture
Muscle tone
Bilateral differences

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Process of touching/feeling the tissues
Pay attention to landmarks
Look for
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Point tenderness
Trigger points
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Change in tissue density
Crepitus
Symmetry
Tissue temperature

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These include
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Range of motion tests
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Ligamentous tests’
Specific special tests
Neurological tests

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Assessment of patient’s ability to move through the range of motion allowed at joint
Perfomed:
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Actively-patient moves his/herself
Passively-clinician moves limb through ROM
Resisted-clinician applies resistance while patient moves limb
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Break test
Make Test

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Evaluate the structural integrity of the ligaments of a joint
Tests how much “give” a joint has
End-Feels
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Firm-slight stretching of the ligament, but there is a definite stopping point
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Soft-increased “openness” of joint when compared to contralateral side
Empty-joint completely opens up; no end feel present

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Specific procedures applied to a joint to determine the presence of a specific injury
Must be performed precisely and bilaterally so a comparison can be made

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Screen of motor and sensory function as well as reflexes
Used to identify nerve root impingement, peripheral nerve damage, CNS trauma, or disease