A neurological examination uses a series of tests to reveal information about the condition of a person’s nervous system. Instruments such as a small flashlight, reflex hammer and tuning fork may be used during the examination, which is painless for most patients.

A neurological examination can be used to diagnose disorders and illnesses that affect the brain, nerves, muscles and spinal cord. Conditions that may be diagnosed through neurological examinations include infections (e.g., encephalitis, meningitis) and other diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or epilepsy.

The nervous system is a network of cells, tissues and organs that regulates the body's responses to internal and external stimuli. In humans, the nervous system consists of the following:

• Brain
• Spinal cord
• Nerves
• Ganglia (a group of nerve cells forming a nerve center)
• Parts of the receptor and effector organs (e.g., muscle contractions, gland secretions)

The nervous system’s complexity can make it difficult for physicians to accurately measure how well the nervous system is performing, and to pinpoint the source of problems that arise. In addition, unlike many diseases, neurological disorders do not always present visible or palpable symptoms. As a result, a successful neurological examination depends on a combination of objective testing as well as insight and intuition on the part of the neurologist.

A neurological examination provides a series of inexpensive physical and mental evaluations that can help provide important clues about a patient’s neurological health. This test may be performed to detect any damage after an injury to the head, such as a concussion or brain aneurysm or to locate the source of headaches.  Patients who experience symptoms of neurological conditions and diseases may also undergo a neurological examination.

Other symptoms that may cause physicians to recommend a neurological examination include:

• Balance and coordination problems
• Blurry vision
• Decreased movement in arms and legs
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Injuries to the back or neck
• Numbness and tingling in the arms or legs
• Seizures
  

  

• Slurred speech
• Muscle weakness

Neurological evaluations are noninvasive and extremely safe. Such exams are divided into six parts:

• Mental status
• Cranial nerves
• Motor examination
• Reflexes
• Coordination and gait
• Sensory examination