Which of the following is NOT part of sensory testing for heat/cold modality?

• A. Patient closes eyes
• B. Apply cold and warm washcloth in the area that the heat or cold modality will be used
• C. Compare bilaterally to the other side
• D. Test reflexes before treatment

Answer: (D)

Testing temperature sensation focuses on whether the patient can perceive and distinguish heat from cold, which helps determine safe and appropriate use of thermal modalities. The patient should close their eyes to remove visual cues, you apply a temperature stimulus (like a warm or cool washcloth) to the treatment area, and you compare sensation on each side to check for symmetry or a deficit. These steps directly assess sensory perception related to heat and cold.

Testing reflexes, on the other hand, evaluates motor pathway function and reflex integrity, not the ability to sense temperature. It informs different aspects of neuromuscular function but doesn’t help determine the patient’s sensory response to heat or cold. Hence, reflex testing is not part of sensory testing for heat/cold modalities.