Programmed Learning Module: Radiculopathy Versus Peripheral Neuropathy Localization—2 Cases

Abstract

Abstract This resource is a programmed learning module designed to stimulate thinking about how the peripheral nervous system physical exam can be structured to differentiate between a radiculopathy and peripheral nerve lesion. The module consists of an upper limb and a lower limb case. Students at our institution took this module after a 2-hour hands-on skills workshop on peripheral nervous system examination with some emphasis on localization and use of the examination as part of a fourth-year required rotation in rehabilitation medicine. At our institution, these cases are hosted on our learning management system using the test feature so that students can input responses to the questions before seeing the correct answer. However, these cases can be used in paper format as well. Of those students who have taken the lower limb localization case, 71.5% strongly agreed and 21% agreed that the module was a valuable use of their time. For the upper limb case, 73.4% strongly agreed and 19% agreed that the module was a valuable use of their time. Most of the written comments about the module were overwhelmingly positive. Comments focused on how the material solidified concepts for students and how it was good practice for the test. This module is important as it reinforces the significance of the physical examination of the peripheral nervous system. It is also important for students to practice these concepts at home, and this module allows them to do this.

Keywords

• Peripheral Nervous System
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Radiculopathy
• Neuropathy
• Nerve Lesions