Final answer:
To observe for involuntary movements, the motor exam involves inspecting muscles for structural irregularities, assessing muscle tone, and testing reflexes. The cerebellum is also assessed for coordination and gait issues. Various signs and indicators help differentiate motor disorders.
Step-by-step explanation:
To observe for involuntary movements, the motor exam tests the function of neurons and the muscles they control. First, the muscles are inspected and palpated for signs of structural irregularities such as scarring. Muscle tone is then assessed by moving the muscles through a passive range of motion to check for resting tension. Lack of muscle tone may indicate an issue with the LMN conducting action potentials.
Reflexes can also help differentiate motor disorders. Deep tendon reflexes and superficial reflexes can be tested to establish the presence of reflexive contractions. Signs associated with motor disorders, such as paralysis type, muscle tone, and specific indicators like pronator drift or the Babinski sign, further aid in diagnosis.
The cerebellum, an important part of motor function, can be assessed for coordination and gait issues. The cerebellum plays a role in procedural learning and acts as a comparator for voluntary movement. Observing tremors and rebound response in the arms can provide insight into the function of the lateral regions of the cerebellum.