Case: Glen          

First Visit - Physical Examination

Height: 173 cm.

Weight: 79 kg.

Temperature, BP, Respiration, Pulse: normal

Standing:
Spinal flexion is about half normal. Extension is about one quarter normal with pain.

Supine:
Straight leg raising is limited to about 40 degrees on the right side and 70 degrees on the left. Dorsiflexion of the right foot during straight leg raising causes an increase in pain. There is decreased strength of dorsiflexion of the right ankle.

Sitting:
Palpation reveals tenderness over the L5 muscle area. Hypoesthesia over the lateral, right foot Decreased ankle reflex on the same side.

Optional Examinations:
In certain situations, with appropriate history, signs and symptoms, other manoeuvres may be an appropriate part of the physical examination, e.g., abdominal exam, Babinski reflex, rectal and pelvic exam.