π Stepwise Approach: Neurologic Evaluation in the Child with Orthopedic Complaint
π Key Principles β Neurologic Assessment (Nelson Ch 714)
β’ MRC Scale (0-5): Grade 5 normal, grade 4 against resistance, grade 3 against gravity, grade 2 with gravity eliminated, grade 1 visible contraction, grade 0 none.
β’ Ashworth Scale (0-4): 0 no tone, 1 slight catch, 2 moderate tone throughout, 3 considerable increase, 4 rigid.
β’ Motor Control Grades: 1 hypotonic no motion, 6 volitional control of specific joints.
β’ Deep Tendon Reflexes: Biceps, triceps, patellar, Achilles. Hyperreflexia = UMN lesion.
β’ Upper Motor Neuron Signs: Clonus (>3 beats), Babinski, Hoffman, spasticity.
β’ Developmental Milestones: Head control 3-6mo, sitting 6-9mo, crawling 8mo, ambulation 12-18mo.