9.7. Diagnosis and Physical Examination in Physiotherapy: Examination of the Upper and Lower Extremities

Diagnosis and physical examination in physiotherapy are essential components in the complete Fundamentals of Physiotherapy course for beginners. In particular, examination of the upper and lower extremities is crucial for assessing the patient's physical condition and planning an effective intervention. This chapter will delve deeper into these areas.

Examination of Upper Extremities

Examination of the upper extremities begins with a visual and palpatory assessment. The physiotherapist observes posture, symmetry, the presence of deformities, swelling, redness or other visible changes. Palpation allows you to identify areas of tenderness, heat, cold, stiffness or swelling.

Next, the physiotherapist assesses the range of motion (ROM) of the shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand joints. This is done by asking the patient to perform various movements such as flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, internal and external rotation. The physiotherapist compares the results with established standards to identify any limitations.

Muscular strength tests are also performed to assess the strength and endurance of the muscles of the upper extremities. This is done by asking the patient to resist a movement against the resistance applied by the physiotherapist.

Neurological examination of the upper extremities involves assessing sensitivity to touch, temperature, pain and vibration. Reflexes are also tested to assess the integrity of peripheral nerves and the spinal cord.

Examination of Lower Extremities

Examination of the lower extremities follows a similar process to that of the upper extremities. It begins with a visual and palpatory assessment, observing posture, symmetry, the presence of deformities, swelling, redness or other visible changes. Palpation allows you to identify areas of tenderness, heat, cold, stiffness or swelling.

The range of motion (ROM) of the hip, knee, ankle and foot joints is assessed. The patient is asked to perform various movements such as flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, internal and external rotation. Any limitations are compared with established standards.

Muscular strength tests are performed to assess the strength and endurance of the muscles of the lower extremities. This is done by asking the patient to resist a movement against the resistance applied by the physiotherapist.

Neurological examination of the lower extremities involves assessing sensitivity to touch, temperature, pain and vibration. Reflexes are also tested to assess the integrity of peripheral nerves and the spinal cord.

In summary, diagnosis and physical examination in physical therapy are valuable tools for assessing the patient's physical condition and planning an effective intervention. Examination of the upper and lower extremities is a crucial component of this process. It provides valuable information about joint function, muscle strength, sensitivity and neurological integrity. This allows the physical therapist to develop a personalized treatment plan to meet the patient's specific needs.

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