Etiology of Symptoms
Injury or irritation of the ulnar nerve in the tunnel between the hook of the hamate and pisiform results from sustained pressure, such as prolonged handwriting or leaning forward onto extended wrists while biking; from repetitive use of the gripping action of the fourth and fifth fingers, as with knitting, tying knots, or […]

In a recent review on the sensitivity and specificity of the various tests used when screening for CTS, MacDermid and Doherty, summarized the key signs and symptoms that increase the probability of diagnosing CTS.
History. Sensory changes in the median nerve distribution of the hand (excluding the palm, which is innervated by the palmar cutaneous branch […]

As with arterial disorders, a complete history and systems review help determine the presence of a venous disorder. These tests complement a comprehensive integumentary and neuromuscular examination that includes skin integrity, mobility, color, texture, temperature, vital signs including peripheral pulses, sensation, pain, functional mobility, ROM, strength, and cardiopulmonary endurance.
Tests and Measures of Venous Sufficiency
· Girth […]

· Palpation and comparison of pulses in the involved and uninvolved upper or lower extremities
· Skin temperature
· Skin integrity and pigmentation
· Tests for reactive hyperemia (rubor of dependence)
· Claudication time
· Ultrasonography, Doppler measurement of blood flow, transcutaneous oximetry
· Magnetic resonance angiography
· Arteriography
Skin Integrity and Pigmentation
Diminished or absent arterial blood flow to an extremity causes trophic […]

The Patient-Client Management Model has five components: examination, evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention. The end result of this model is effective outcomes.
Examination is the first step of the process. It has three parts: the history, systems review, and tests and measures. The examination should be thorough and use all sources, including […]