ABSTRACT
Neurological examinations have the tendency of unnerving students. Perhaps this is because the people tend to use other examinations, such as the cardiovascular exam, more commonly and there is a lack of familiarity with the neurological exam. Test all movements in the upper limbs and ensure that the people recognise the nerve roots and peripheral nerves that correlate with each movement. Practise eliciting reflexes to ensure that the people know where the tendons lie anatomically. Coordination is often tested last when assessing motor function. It is normal for the non-dominant hand to be a little less coordinated. Joint position sensation tests proprioceptive function and the relevant fibres project through the dorsal columns. Vibration sense is carried within the dorsal columns, and should be tested using a 128-Hz tuning fork. One can comment on the wish to undertake an examination of the cranial nerves, if appropriate.
