Neurological Exam
A neurological exam is a series of tests and evaluations used to assess the function of your nervous system, which includes your brain, spinal cord, and nerves. It helps our physicians diagnose neurological conditions and develop personalized treatment plans.
What to Expect:
Your neurologist will begin by reviewing your medical history, including any current symptoms, past illnesses, and medications you are taking. They will then perform a physical exam, which may include checking your:
- Mental Status: This assesses your awareness, memory, and cognitive abilities. You may be asked questions about yourself, your surroundings, or recent events.
- Cranial Nerves: These nerves control functions like vision, hearing, smell, taste, facial movement, and eye movement. The neurologist may test these by having you follow objects with your eyes, smile, or identify different smells.
- Motor Function: This evaluates your muscle strength, coordination, and balance. You may be asked to walk, stand, or perform simple movements.
- Reflexes: Reflexes are involuntary muscle reactions. The neurologist will check your reflexes using a small rubber hammer.
- Sensory Function: This assesses your ability to feel sensations like touch, pain, temperature, and vibration.
- Coordination and Gait: This evaluates your balance, posture, and ability to coordinate movements. You may be asked to walk heel-to-toe or perform other coordination tests.
Why Get a Neurological Exam?
As previously stated, neurological exams are a crucial tool in diagnosing a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
And many others.
After Your Exam:
Based on the findings of your neurological exam, your neurologist may recommend further testing, such as:
- MRI or CT scans of the brain or spine.
- EEG (electroencephalogram) to measure brain activity.
- EMG (electromyography) and nerve conduction studies to assess muscle and nerve function.
- Blood tests or other laboratory tests.
Your neurologist will discuss the results of your exam and any further testing with you, and will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.
At Knight Neurology, we strive to provide compassionate and comprehensive care. If you have any questions or concerns about your neurological exam, please don't hesitate to ask. Our team is here to support you every step of the way. We look forward to helping you on your journey to better neurological health. Call us at (321) 345-6331 or schedule an appointment online today!