Somatic Dysfunction - Diagnosis

Diagnosis

Somatic dysfunction is diagnosed by physical examination by an osteopathic physician, which is a physician with the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree (D.O.). The osteopathic physician looks for signs and symptoms related to the somatic dysfunction commonly represented by the mnemonic device "TART" or "STAR" (tissue texture change, asymmetry, restriction, and tenderness ). The physician uses techniques such as layer-by-layer palpation and intersegmental range of motion testing to diagnose the somatic dysfunction. Diagnosis usually requires only the use of the physician's hands and fingertips, though instruments such as a goniometer can be used to detect a diminished range of motion.