Neurologic Screening for Cerebellar Impairment or Brain Dysfunction

Heel-to-Shin Test

With the individual lying supine, have the individual place their heel of the right foot just below their left knee, and pass it straight down their shin and back up again, repeating as quickly and as accurately as possible. Have the individual repeat this maneuver on the opposite side. Observe for accuracy of heel placement, and note if the heel is moved easily down the shin without deviating or jerking. Like other maneuvers designed to test motor skill, inability to perform heel-to-shin appropriately infers possible cerebellar involvement. However, clarity of your request to perform this movement, natural coordination skills of the individual, joint disease, hip or knee implants, as well as significant pain, will effect compliance.

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