: This is arguably the most critical step, where the clinician gathers information on symptom onset, functional limitations, and previous treatments.
: Evaluating gait, posture, balance, and signs of inflammation or deformity. Hands-on Techniques : Orthopedic Physical Assessment
: Used to detect severe conditions like Acute Compartment Syndrome through pain, poikilothermia (coolness), pallor, paresthesia (tingling), pulselessness, and paralysis. : This is arguably the most critical step,
: Modern assessments prioritize tests with high "pre-test probability" and validity, moving away from outdated or unreliable physical tests in favor of those supported by clinical research. Cornerstone Resources and previous treatments. : Evaluating gait
: Feeling bones, muscles, and joints for tenderness, swelling, or heat.
A high-quality assessment follows a logical sequence to ensure no detail is missed: