Numbness in the fingers. Weakness in a leg. Dizziness appearing without a clear reason.
These symptoms can be concerning.
The neurological examination in a chiropractic clinic allows assessment of the nervous system’s function. It helps guide the evaluation by identifying whether the symptoms are associated with a joint, muscle, or nervous component, while also allowing detection of more serious or pathological conditions.
This step is essential to lead care safely and appropriately.
Why a neurological examination by a chiropractor?
The nervous system plays a central role in the body. It transmits information between the brain and the muscles.
When this system functions less well, various symptoms may appear:
- pain
- numbness
- weakness
- loss of balance
Thus, the chiropractor performs a neurological examination to evaluate the function of the nervous system and to guide their clinical analysis.
This examination allows to:
- better understand the origin of the problem
- distinguish a mechanical cause from a nervous cause
- adjust the treatment precisely
- identify situations requiring medical referral
Neurological evaluation in chiropractic clinic: what is observed
The chiropractic neurological examination is simple, quick, and painless. It provides important information on the nervous system function.
Osteotendinous reflexes
The chiropractor may test some reflexes using a small hammer. For example, a light tap below the knee triggers an automatic leg extension reaction.
This test assesses the integrity of the reflex arc. It helps identify nerve irritation or compression, and more rarely certain neurological conditions requiring additional medical evaluation.
Skin sensitivity (dermatomes)
Certain areas of the skin are tested to check touch perception (fine touch and pain touch).
A decrease in sensation in a specific region may indicate a nerve is affected.
Muscle strength (myotomes)
Resistance tests are used to evaluate the strength of certain muscles. A localized weakness may indicate involvement of a specific nerve root. This test helps identify lower motor neuron involvement and locate the neurological level implicated.
Certain pathological neurological reflexes
The chiropractor may, for example, observe the foot’s reaction when stimulated underneath. Normally, the toes remain still or flex. If the big toe lifts unusually (Babinski sign), this may indicate central nerve damage.
Balance and coordination
Simple tests evaluate stability and movement control.
They are particularly useful in cases of dizziness, balance disorders, or difficulty coordinating certain movements.
These tests help identify cerebellar involvement (spinal cord lesions, Parkinson’s, etc.) or vestibular system issues (Ménière’s disease, positional vertigo, etc.).
Brain-related functions (cranial nerves)
In some cases, functions such as eye movements or coordination are evaluated. These tests are used, especially in cases of headaches, dizziness, or after head trauma.
Which symptoms require a neurological examination?
Certain signs suggest nervous system involvement.
The most common are:
- numbness
- tingling
- electric shock sensation
- muscle weakness
- pain radiating down an arm or a leg
- dizziness
- frequent headaches
These symptoms deserve evaluation to understand their origin.
Concrete example
A person working at a computer may feel numbness in the fingers at the end of the day.
The neurological examination then allows to:
- Detect specific muscle weakness
- Identify a specific nerve or structure affected
- Guide treatment more precisely and effectively.
Common questions about the neurological examination in chiropractic clinic
Is the neurological examination painful?
No. The tests are simple and painless.
Why test reflexes?
Reflexes verify the communication between nerves and muscles, for example, during a herniated disc affecting the adjacent nerve.
Do these tests mean a serious problem?
Not necessarily. They serve to assess the nervous system function.
Is it always necessary?
Yes, in the presence of symptoms such as numbness or weakness.
How long does the examination last?
A few minutes, integrated into the full evaluation.
The body sometimes sends signals that may seem worrying. The neurological examination in a chiropractic clinic helps better understand these manifestations. It helps identify the cause and guide care.
Adequate assessment allows targeted and safe action.
For any questions or for an evaluation, consult a chiropractor member of ChiroRéseau.