GALS

GALS stands for Gait, Arms, Legs, Spine. It is a rapid screening examination used to detect musculoskeletal abnormalities and is commonly employed in primary care and rheumatology settings to flag patients who may need a more detailed assessment.

The test is designed to be quick and simple, requiring no special equipment. A clinician observes the patient’s gait for symmetry, pace, and any limp. The Arms portion assesses arms and shoulders for range of motion and movement symmetry, while the Legs portion evaluates hip, knee, and ankle function. The Spine portion checks mobility of the cervical and lumbar regions. Any restriction, pain, or asymmetry identified during these observations prompts further, more comprehensive examination or diagnostic testing.

GALS is valued for its efficiency and broad utility, enabling clinicians to screen large numbers of patients and identify those who may have conditions such as osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthropathies, or spinal disorders. It can be used in outpatient clinics, hospital wards, or community health programs as an initial screening tool.

Limitations include its nature as a screening instrument rather than a diagnostic test. A normal GALS screen does not completely exclude musculoskeletal disease, particularly if symptoms are focal or intermittent. Conversely, positive findings require follow-up with a full joint-specific examination, targeted imaging, or laboratory testing as appropriate.

In summary, GALS provides a quick, noninvasive method to screen for musculoskeletal problems and guide subsequent clinical evaluation.