Musculoskeletal System Assessment Techniques

Musculoskeletal System (MSK)

Structural components of the body including muscles and bones.

Screening MS Exam

Quick assessment of overall musculoskeletal structure.

Comprehensive MS Exam

Detailed examination typically performed by rheumatologists.

Regional MS Exam

Focused evaluation of specific joints or structures.

Palpation

Technique using pressure to identify musculoskeletal abnormalities.

Observation

Assessing visible abnormalities in skin and musculoskeletal components.

Range of Motion (ROM)

Measurement of joint movement, can be active or passive.

Active ROM

Patient-initiated movement to assess joint function.

Passive ROM

Examiner-initiated movement to evaluate joint flexibility.

Goniometer

Instrument used to measure joint angles and ROM.

Skin-Marking Pencil

Tool for marking anatomical landmarks during examination.

Reflex Hammer

Device used to test deep tendon reflexes.

Tape Measure

Used to measure distances and dimensions during assessment.

Gait Analysis

Evaluation of walking patterns and locomotion functions.

Trigger Points

Sensitive areas in muscles indicating myofascial pain.

Symmetry/Asymmetry

Comparison of body parts for balanced development.

Muscle Atrophy

Decrease in muscle mass due to disuse or disease.

Kyphosis

Abnormal curvature of the spine, hunchback appearance.

Scoliosis

Lateral curvature of the spine, often in adolescents.

Drawer Sign

Test for knee ligament stability during examination.

Pediatric Variations

Changes in musculoskeletal findings during growth stages.

Subjective Documentation

Patient-reported symptoms and history during assessment.

Objective Documentation

Clinician-observed findings during physical examination.