Exams

Chirorpractic Exam | Lameness Exam | Neurologic Exam | Physical Exam | Soundness Exam

The Neurologic Exam

A Neurologic Exam is a focused assessment of the nervous system. The veterinarian conducts specific tests to assess the Cranial Nerves of the head and face, the Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems, and the presence of pain. The exam includes stimulation of both reflexes and patterned movements to differentiate between a “non-thinking” or reflexive response and a consciously conducted action. Sensory perception, muscular strength, and differing levels of pain sensation are also assessed. The patient is observed at the walk for evidence of weakness or difficulty with balance.

Horses that stumble, have difficulty carrying their riders, a history of moving awkwardly while backing or turning, or are weak behind, are candidates for a Neurologic Exam. Agility dogs with a decreased performance or muscle loss can benefit from a Neurologic Exam, as can any animal with a movement difficulty. This is because the nervous system organizes and controls movement. The muscles move the animal, but they are controlled by the nervous system.

A Neurologic Exam is included during an initial chiropractic assessment, and often during rechecks. Chiropractic directly affects the nervous system, and so it is important to assess that system. Practitioners trained in Functional Neurology also use information gleaned during the Neurologic Exam -such as subtle muscle imbalances or gait deviations- to tailor their Chiropractic treatment as closely as possible to the needs of a patient and to monitor a patient’s response during treatment.