What is the pGALS assessment?
pGALS is a simple, quick assessment of the musculoskeletal system and validated for use in the school aged child. It is useful to discern abnormal from normal joints and can detect abnormalities that may not be apparent from the history alone.
How do you assess musculoskeletal?
To assess the musculoskeletal system, you carefully inspect your patient, examining the symmetry of the joints, muscles, and bones and checking for swelling, redness, and ease of movement. Then you palpate over the joints, noting any areas of warmth or tenderness.
When is a musculoskeletal assessment performed?
If the patient presents complaints in the musculoskeletal system or if any abnormality has been observed, it is important to do a thorough musculoskeletal examination, not only to delineate the extent of gross abnormalities but also to look closely for subtle anomalies.
What questions do you ask during a musculoskeletal assessment?
Are you experiencing any current musculoskeletal symptoms such as muscle weakness, pain, swelling, redness, warmth, or stiffness? Describe your concern today. How is it affecting your ability to complete daily activities? P: Does anything bring on the symptom such as activity, weight-bearing, or rest?
What 3 techniques are used during a musculoskeletal assessment?
To perform an examination of the muscles, bones, and joints, use the classic techniques of inspection, palpation, and manipulation.
What happens at a musculoskeletal assessment?
A thorough musculoskeletal examination should include inspection, palpation of soft tissues surrounding the joint of interest, and assessment of both muscle strength and flexibility. First, gait should be observed. There may be an antalgic gait or a slow gait pattern because of pain in a specific joint.
How do you remember the musculoskeletal assessment?
I PASS stands for Inspection, Palpation, Active ROM (& Passive ROM), Strength, Special Tests. This is a good mnemonic for doing Musculoskeletal exams e.g. shoulder, knee, etc.
What are the normal findings in musculoskeletal assessment?
Normal or abnormal findings that could be elicited by observation and palpation include: symmetry/asymmetry – skin color and appearance, rash, ulcers, lack of sweating hair abnormalities – warmth and heat – Swelling including effusions, nodules, and inflammatory findings like synovial and periarticular thickening – …
What happens in a musculoskeletal assessment?
Which musculoskeletal assessment findings are normal?
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| Assessment | Expected Findings |
|---|---|
| Inspection | Erect posture with good balance and normal gait while walking. Joints and muscles are symmetrical with no swelling, redness, or deformity. Active range of motion of all joints without difficulty. No spine curvature. |
| Auscultation | Not applicable |