Sensory: Exam Demonstration

Romberg test (proprioception in lower extremities)

The patient is asked to stand with feet close together. If there is instability with the eyes open, a cerebellum lesion is suggested (coordination deficit) and Romberg testing cannot be done. The Romberg test consists of assessing balance with the eyes CLOSED, which requires proprioceptive input from the lower extremities. If the patient loses balance with the eyes closed, a lesion of the dorsal column / medial lemniscus system is suggested. 

Often the Romberg test will be included sequentially during the exam with coordination testing. 

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