My exams are the most important thing I do!
Further, it goes way beyond running through a physical examination. It is my specialized training that enables me to:
Do a meaningful exam
Interpret the data ascertained during the exam
Correlate exam, lab, and subjective complaints
Diagnose
Make appropriate referrals
Order differential diagnostic labs, imagining, and/or other special tests
Develop a course of treatment
The main objective of a neurological exam is twofold:
To identify an abnormality in the nervous system.
To differentiate peripheral from central nervous system lesions.
Videonystagmography:
VNG or videonystagmography. This 20 minute test is a superior objective diagnostic tool. We run VNGs throughout the course of treatment so that we KNOW that we KNOW we are making the changes we want to make. For more information, check out our informative VNG video.
The basic components of the physical neurological exam:
I. General Appearance
Habitus
Posture
Vital Signs
Motor Activity
II. Mini Mental Status
Memory
Speech
III. Cranial Nerves I-XII
All but CN I & II exit the brainstem. Examining the cranial nerves is an excellent way to evaluate the functionality of the brainstem.
IV. Motor System
Tone
Strength
Atrophy
V. Sensory System
Vibration
Joint Position
Pin Prick
Temperature
Light touch
Higher sensory function
VI. Reflexes
Deep tendon reflexes
Primitive reflexes
Pathological reflexes
VII. Cerebellar
Coordination
Gait
Balance
Exams run anywhere from 1 to 2 hours depending upon the age and functional ability of the patient. After the exam is completed and reviewed and other information (labs etc.) has been collected and subsequently reviewed, the patient is scheduled for a “Report of Findings.” During the ROF, I go over in detail what the problem is so that the patient understands exactly what is going on and what needs to happen by way of treatment.
I hope you have found this helpful!
Why Carolina Brain Center?
Dr. Dane brings 20 years of experience to the Triangle and has helped many people achieve a healthier brain and body.
Ready For A Consultation?
Dr Dane is ready to talk when you are. We’ll need some information from you to get the process started!