What are the first two steps when performing the arm fossa test?

• A. Say hold, then pull
• B. Say hold, then touch
• C. Touch, then hold
• D. Pull, then touch

Answer: (B)

The arm fossa test is a specific procedure used in Sacro Occipital Technique (SOT) to evaluate the function and integrity of the nervous system and the musculoskeletal system. The correct first two steps are to say “hold,” followed by “touch.”

In this context, the practitioner initially instructs the patient to resist against any force to assess muscle strength, which is where the “hold” command comes into play. This helps establish a baseline for the muscle's response. Following that, when the practitioner touches the arm, they can gauge any changes in muscle strength or tone that occur in response to the pressure applied, which provides crucial information about the patient’s condition and the adequacy of neurological and structural connections.

These actions are fundamental to the test because they set up the dynamic between the practitioner and the patient, allowing for a reliable assessment of the nervous system’s response, which is the primary goal of the arm fossa test. This systematic approach is critical for achieving valid results in SOT assessments.