Question

Compare and contrast the musculoskeletal assessment of a 2-month-old, a 4-year-old, and a 10-year-old. Include developmental variances and physiologic differences.

Answer 1

Musculoskeletal assessment of 2 month old:
• Feet and legs should be symmetrical in size, shape and movement.
• Extremities should be warm and mobile.
• Adequate capillary refill.
• All pulses should be strong and bilaterally equal.
• Ortolani's maneuver should be negative.
• Barlow's sign should be negative.
• The spine is rounded.
• Check for babinski's response.
Musculoskeletal assessment of a 4 and 10 year old:
• Observation of gait and posture
• General walking capabilities
• Symmetry of body
• Muscle bulk
• Vascular assessment
• Weight bearing assessment