complete plegia of one limb when tested on the examination bed but strength maintained in that same leg when standing up and walking • ability to use a hand to reach into a bag or tie shoelaces (Fig. 18.3) • ability to stand on tiptoes or heels but very little ankle strength on ...
If patients have difficulty climbing stairs, combing hair, and standing up with predominantly proximal muscle weakness and intact sensation, suspect myopathy. Physical therapy is usually helpful in improving strength for all causes of weakness.