Evaluation Procedures
The therapist will then perform the objective evaluation which may include some of the following:

Palpation – touching aound the area of the pain/problem. This is done to check for the presence of tenderness, swelling, soft tissue integrity, tissue temperature, inflammation, etc.

Range of Motion (ROM) – the therapist will move the joint(s) to check for the quality of movement and restrictions.

Muscle Testing – the therapist is checking for strength and quality of muscle contraction. Pain anmd weakness maybe noted. Often the muscle strength is graded. This is also part of a neurological screening.

Neurological Screening - the therapist may check to see how the nerves are communicating with the muscles, sensing touch, pain, vibration, or temperature. Reflexes may be assessed as well.

Special Test - the therapist may perform special tests to confirm/rule out the presence of additional problems.

Posture Assessment – The positions of joints relative to ideal and each other may be assessed.