What should be visually examined in addition to the extremities during a thorough examination?

The correct choice focuses on examining the neck, including the spine and pelvis, during a thorough musculoskeletal examination. This is vital because injuries or conditions affecting the spine and pelvis can significantly impact the overall function of the extremities and the entire musculoskeletal system.

Additionally, assessing the neck is crucial due to its proximity to vital structures, including the cervical spine, which can be involved in a wide range of injuries, especially in trauma cases. Damage to the cervical spine can result in neurological deficits or complications. Similarly, the pelvis serves as a critical junction between the axial and appendicular skeletons, and injuries in this area can lead to significant morbidity and alter mobility and stability.

While examining the stomach and chest cavity could provide important information in a comprehensive assessment, they are not specifically linked to the musculoskeletal system. Evaluating the skin condition can give insights into potential underlying systemic issues or complications but does not directly impact the assessment of musculoskeletal integrity. Assessing overall mobility can be important in understanding the function of the extremities, but it does not replace the need to carefully inspect the neck and spine for potential injuries. Thus, focusing on the neck, spine, and pelvis aligns closely with the goals of a musculoskeletal assessment.