What is a neurological examination that you perform on your automobile accident patients?

Introduction

In the realm of chiropractic care, accurately diagnosing spinal and neurological issues is essential for effective treatment. At our clinic, we conduct a detailed three-part neurological examination designed to pinpoint the root causes of your discomfort. Whether you've been in an automobile accident or are experiencing chronic pain, this examination is crucial for your recovery.

1. Reflex Testing: The First Line of Diagnosis

The neurological examination begins with reflex testing, a primary diagnostic tool for assessing the integrity of your nervous system. Using a reflex hammer, our chiropractors gently test reflex points on your arms and legs—three on the neck and two on the lower back. Reflex responses are graded on a scale from +1 to +5, with +2 considered a normal response. Abnormal reflexes can indicate potential issues such as nerve damage or neurological disorders, guiding further diagnostic steps.

2. Sensory Testing: Assessing Nerve Function

Sensory testing follows reflex assessment, where we use a Whartenberg wheel to evaluate the sensory input from your skin to your brain. This tool, which resembles a cowboy spur with a handle, is rolled across different areas of your arms and legs. Each tested area corresponds to specific spinal levels, providing insights into how well sensory information is being transmitted through your nervous system. Disruptions in sensory input can be indicative of localized nerve compressions or systemic neurological conditions.

3. Motor Testing: Evaluating Muscle Strength

The final component of our neurological examination focuses on motor output. In this phase, you are asked to resist pressure applied by the chiropractor, which helps us assess muscle strength and coordination. Each muscle group tested is linked to specific levels in your spine, pinpointing areas that may be affected by nerve impairments. A normal result in motor testing, graded as +5 out of +5, indicates healthy motor function and nerve integrity.

Why is This Examination Important?

This thorough neurological assessment helps identify any deviations from normal reflexes, sensory inputs, and motor outputs, which are often signs of underlying health issues. Early detection and targeted treatment are key to preventing long-term disabilities and enhancing recovery, especially after traumatic incidents like auto accidents.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Don't let pain or post-accident trauma hinder your quality of life. Our specialized neurological examination is designed to uncover the root causes of your symptoms and guide tailored treatment plans. For immediate assistance and to schedule your neurological examination, call us at 203-261-7333. Our chiropractic team is committed to helping you achieve optimal health and pain-free living.