Sensory Testing - Position Sense

This video demonstrates a general technique for testing position sense (or proprioception). Key components of the exam include ensuring that you splay the Great and 2nd toe, grip the IP joint firmly, and do not touch the 2nd toe as you move the Great Toe (this would provide the patient with light touch sensory feedback which may assist them with determining the motion). As you move the toe, ask the patient which direction it is moving - "Down" towards you (ie. Flexion) or "Up" towards the patient's nose (ie. Extension). Patients should be able to distinguish small changes in movement.