Position of Patient
For tracing nerves in the neck, back, and upper extremities, the patient should sit easily. For lumbar, abdominal, or pelvic tracing, or for tracing in the lower extremities, have patient lie on side or back. Do not hesitate to change the position of the patient as often as is necessary to secure easy access to the part to be examined and relaxation of the patient’s muscles. Never allow the assumption of a strained position during tracing; the sensation of cramped muscles may be confused with sensations of nerve tenderness.