Motor Function Assessment Basics

Motor function assessment begins with careful observation. Abnormal motor findings can appear in many diseases, including movement disorders, myopathies, and strokes. The clinician first watches how the patient walks into the exam area. They also note walking without help, speed, and coordination while moving.

1. Observation.

1. During the interview, observe the patient for abnormal movement. Observe for too little movement (hypokinesis), such as a masked facies, and for too much movement (hyperkinesis) such as tremor, tics, and chorea.
2. Answer questions like: Are tremors occurring at rest, as is typical of Parki...