The art of the bedside examination is becoming more prevalent in health care as a consequence of many health conditions existing with normal imaging and lab work. This is many times seen with neurological disorders in which MRI/CT may be normal. The bedside neurological examination is crucial for an accurate diagnosis in many conditions and may save some of your patients’ lives if done correctly. Many times patients present with functional disorders and a comprehensive bedside examination can help dictate the most appropriate care for your patient.
The Neurological Examination will provide a hands-on review of the physiology and examination of the different levels of the neuraxis including the various end organs, peripheral nerve, spinal cord, brain stem, cerebellum, basal ganglia, and cerebral cortex. This examination includes a cranial nerve exam, sensory and motor exam, cognitive exam, reflex examination, as well as a balance and gait exam. Detailed explanations will be provided relating to which therapies to perform relative to the examination findings. By being able to more accurately localize where your patient’s problems are occurring, you can better deliver more specific therapies that increase your clinical outcomes.