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Upper limb power

Authoring team

The patient's upper limb muscle strength is gauged by the examiner's ability to overcome the patient's full voluntary resistance. The patient's muscle strength is graded - see power grading in menu. The examiner tests different movements in order to test different nerve roots.

When assessing power:

  • it is important to consider if there is a pattern to any weakness - proximal, distal or symmetrical
  • take into consideration whether any painful joint or muscle disease is interfering with assessment

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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