Physical Examination

The physical examination will follow the history taking. The point of the exam is to determine which structures and tissues are affected in each case. The physical examination involves the use of a variety of testing techniques. Range of motion, posture assessment, joint mobility, orthopedic tests, reflex testing, sensory testing and strength tests are all commonly used when examining the parts of the body experiencing pain and restriction. Sometimes the doctor will require additional tests, such as x-rays, or referral for medical examination.