ASIA-OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL MUSCLE TESTING

SUMMARY

1. Diaphragm: tested using vital capacity or under fluroscopy. Movement of the hemidiaphragm ≥ 2 interspaces is normal.

2. Deltoids: major contributor for reach of the upper extremity. Cannot be properly tested in the supine position.

3. Abdominal muscles: T6-T12. Look for Beevor sign: with the patient flexing the head & neck, the umbilicus will move rostrally if the patient has a lesion below T10 because of the intact muscles above T10.

4. Hip adductors: important to monitor as these are the first muscles to recover after injury of the lower extremeties.

Reference(s)

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.