GALS examination (Gait, Arms, Legs, Spine) - OSCE Guide | UKMLA | CPSA

Summary

In this medical examination, David, a medical student, conducts a thorough assessment of James, a 27-year-old man. The examination includes checks on muscle and joint strength, mobility, and any potential pain in specific areas. Despite a well-healed scar on James's arm, he reports no pain or difficulties with movement. The examination reveals normal function in the arms and legs, though some scapular asymmetry is noted in the spine. Overall, the Gauss screen indicates a healthy status, and David concludes with a focused examination of any joints that might show signs of pathology.

Takeaways

• 😀 The examination is conducted by a medical student, David, who confirms the patient's identity at the beginning.
• 🩺 James Alexander, the patient, reports no pain in his muscles, joints, or back during the examination.
• 📋 David performs a series of physical tests to assess James's mobility, including walking and moving arms and legs.
• 👕 The patient is instructed to remove his top and stand with his arms outstretched for examination.
• 🚶‍♂️ James is assessed for his ability to dress himself and navigate stairs without difficulty.
• 💪 Key tests include squeezing fingers, touching each finger with the thumb, and checking joint pain.
• 🔍 The examination includes mobility checks of the legs and ankles, as well as fluid assessment around the knee.
• 🌀 Neck mobility is tested by having James touch his ear to his shoulder on both sides.
• 🦴 The spine examination reveals some scapular asymmetry but maintains normal curvature and range of movement.
• ✅ Overall, the examination indicates a normal gauss screen, suggesting no significant abnormalities.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the examination conducted by David?

The purpose of the examination is to assess James's muscles and joints, checking for any pain or mobility issues.

What personal information does David confirm with James at the beginning of the examination?

David confirms James's name and date of birth.

What physical actions does David ask James to perform during the examination?

David asks James to walk, move his arms and legs, bend forward, touch his fingers with his thumb, and touch his ear to his shoulder.

How does James respond regarding any pain during the examination?

James reports no pain in his muscles, joints, or back during the examination.

What specific findings are noted regarding James's arms?

The examination notes a well-healed scar on the posterior aspect of the left upper arm, but otherwise, the arm movement and hand function are normal.

Was there any abnormality found in James's legs during the examination?

No abnormalities were noted in the legs, and there was a normal range of passive movement bilaterally.

What observation is made about James's spine?

There is some scapula asymmetry with loss of contour on the left side, but the curvature of the spine is normal with a full range of active movements.

What does a 'normal Gauss screen' indicate in this context?

A normal Gauss screen indicates that there are no significant issues or abnormalities detected in the musculoskeletal examination.

What instructions does David give James regarding his clothing during the examination?

David instructs James to take his top off while keeping his shorts on for the examination.

What was the conclusion of the examination?

The examination concluded that there were no significant abnormalities or joint pathologies found, and James was able to perform all requested movements without difficulty.