Final answer:
To test the L5 myotome, muscle strength can be assessed by having the patient contract muscles against resistance. Lateral differences in strength and global loss of strength can provide important information about the motor system.
Step-by-step explanation:
To test the L5 myotome, muscle strength can be assessed by having the patient contract muscles against resistance. For example, the examiner can ask the patient to lift the leg while the examiner applies downward pressure. This resistance test can help determine if there is an overall loss of strength or if there are lateral differences in strength. Lateral differences could indicate a deficit in one corticospinal tract compared to the other, while an overall loss of strength may suggest a global problem with the motor system.