Scanning examination | patient assessment | physiotherapy
In physiotherapy, scanning examination refers to a systematic approach to assess a patient's body to identify the source of pain, dysfunction, or injury. This examination is especially useful in cases where the exact cause of symptoms is unclear. It typically involves a combination of observation, palpation, and functional testing. Here’s an overview of the key components of a scanning examination in physiotherapy:
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Steps of Scanning Examination
1. History Taking
Gather detailed information about the patient's symptoms, history of the injury, medical background, and lifestyle.
2. Observation
Assess posture, alignment, muscle wasting, swelling, or any visible deformities.
3. Active Range of Motion (AROM)
Ask the patient to move joints or body parts to observe mobility and pain during movement.
4. Passive Range of Motion (PROM)
The therapist moves the patient’s joint to assess end feel, restrictions, and possible pain.
5. Strength Testing (Manual Muscle Testing)
Evaluate muscle strength and check for weakness or asymmetry.
6. Neurological Testing
Assess reflexes, dermatomes (skin sensation), and myotomes (muscle strength associated with specific nerve roots).
7. Palpation
Feel for abnormalities, tenderness, or tightness in muscles, joints, and soft tissues.
8. Special Tests
Perform region-specific tests to confirm or rule out certain conditions (e.g., Spurling's Test for cervical radiculopathy or Slump Test for neural tension).
9. Functional Assessment
Observe how the patient performs specific activities like walking, bending, or lifting.
10. Document Findings
Record observations, limitations, and any positive or negative test results for planning treatment.
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Purpose of a Scanning Examination
To locate the source of pain or dysfunction.
To differentiate between referred pain and local problems.
To guide the therapist in creating a targeted treatment plan.
To identify if a patient needs referral to another healthcare professional.
This approach is particularly common for spine-related problems, such as cervical, thoracic, or lumbar issues, where symptoms can radiate to other areas like arms or legs.