Neurological examination for multiple sclerosis (MS)
Tests performed during the neurological exam
During the neurological exam, a number of tests may be performed to check for signs of MS. During these tests, your neurologist may:1–3
- Assess your hand strength with a grip test
- Check your reflexes, balance, and coordination
- Assess your eye movement and reaction to light
You will also be asked about your medical history and details of symptoms to get a better picture of whether what you are experiencing is indicative of MS and to decide if further tests are required.1
I did the 25-foot walk test where you walk in a straight line – or try to! For me, there were also general health questions, like: Do you smoke or drink? Have you lost weight recently? How are your energy levels? I was asked if there was anyone in my family with MS, too. I also had to do things like touch my nose with my finger.
Katie
Living with MS since 2016
During my neurological exam, I had a physiotherapist come in and I had to balance on something and walk in a straight line. I also carried out some tests with a speech therapist and did the 9-Hole Peg Test, where you get timed on how long you take to put pegs into holes.
Grace
Living with MS since 2017
There are a lot of tests that come with an MS diagnosis. These articles could help.
Each article relates to a different test or method used to help diagnose MS. All explained as openly and clearly as possible.
- Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG). What happens during a neurological examination? https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK348940/ [accessed June 2020].
- Neurological Advisor. In multiple sclerosis, hand strength may indicate disease status. https://www.neurologyadvisor.com/conference-highlights/cmsc-2017/in-multiple-sclerosis-hand-strength-may-indicate-disease-status/ [accessed June 2020].
- Healthline. What’s the connection between MS and optic neuritis? https://www.healthline.com/health/multiple-sclerosis/optic-neuritis [accessed June 2020].