What does the heel to shin test assess in patients?

The heel to shin test is a clinical assessment technique primarily used to evaluate lower limb coordination and cerebellar function. During this test, a patient is instructed to slide the heel of one foot down the shin of the opposite leg while the patient is seated. The ability to perform this movement smoothly and accurately requires proper coordination, which is under the control of the cerebellum.

When the cerebellum is functioning properly, the patient should be able to execute the task without difficulty, demonstrating good coordination and motor control. If there are difficulties, such as an inability to keep the heel in a straight line or the movement appearing jerky or uncoordinated, it may indicate cerebellar dysfunction or other neurological issues.

This test is not designed to assess upper limb strength, vision and balance, or reflexes and reaction time, making it a specific tool for examining coordination and the integrity of the cerebellar pathways involved in motor control.