The 5th cranial nerve, trigeminal, consists of three sensory (V1, V2 and V3) and a motor component, V3.
Sensation is tested to light touch with a cotton wisp, temperature with a cold tuning fork and pain with a disposable pin. If the patient complains of sensory symptoms, it is advisable to perform side to side comparisons moving from the impaired side to the normal side.
Examination Technique:
touch a cotton wisp to the forehead, cheek and chin (avoid the angle of the jaw which is innervated by upper cervical roots)
Trigeminal Nerve – Light Touch