ABSTRACT
Inspect for swelling, muscle wasting, signs of inflammation and sinus formation. Anterior – Scars, wasting of quadriceps, sinuses, fixed flexion deformity (FFD) or rotational deformities. Put your hands on both anterior superior iliac spines (ASIS) to check if they are level (assess for pelvic tilt). Lateral – Scars, wasting muscles, sinuses and exaggerated lord sis of the spine. Posterior – Scars, wasting glutei/hamstrings, tufts of hair, scoliosis and sinuses. The examination of the spine follows the same logical pattern as examination of any other joint. This includes Look, Feel, Move, Special tests. Completing the spine examination. Perform a full neurological assessment of the upper and lower limbs. Perform a full vascular examination of the upper and lower limbs. Perform an abdominal examination (to exclude an abdominal aortic aneurysm) and assess anal tone by performing a digital rectal examination. Examine the joint above and below (shoulder and hip joint). Assess the impact of the joint condition on the patient's life.
