Care Plan          

Algorithm < 4 weeks - Initial Evaluation - Perform a Focused Physical Examination

Here the emphasis is on:

• Straight leg raising (SLR)
• Ankle and knee reflexes
• Ankle and great toe dorsiflexion strength
• Distribution of sensory complaints

A more elaborate neurologic evaluation is usually not necessary if there are no limb complaints.

Physical Exam Sensitivity and Specificity

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