CCAT Neurological Condition Rehabilitation 2

Question 1

Which gait pattern is most commonly observed in a dog with a T3-L3 spinal cord lesion?

Accepted Answer

Upper motor neuron paraparesis with intact thoracic limb function

Answer

A T3-L3 lesion produces UMN signs in the pelvic limbs (spastic paresis/paralysis) while thoracic limbs remain normal.

Question 2

When performing underwater treadmill therapy with a dog recovering from degenerative myelopathy, which water level best facilitates ambulation while reducing weight-bearing?

Accepted Answer

At the level of the greater trochanter

Answer

Water at the greater trochanter level reduces body weight by approximately 40%, supporting ambulation without eliminating proprioceptive challenge.

Question 3

A cat presents with acute onset cervical pain and right forelimb lameness following a jump. MRI reveals a Hansen Type I disc herniation at C5-C6. Which rehabilitation goal is MOST appropriate in the acute phase?

Accepted Answer

Pain management and activity restriction

Answer

In the acute phase of disc herniation, pain control and strict rest are prioritized to prevent further spinal cord compression.

Question 4

Which proprioceptive exercise is MOST appropriate for early-stage rehabilitation of a dog with mild cerebellar ataxia?

Accepted Answer

Slow rhythmic weight shifting on a firm surface

Answer

Slow, controlled weight-shifting exercises on firm surfaces help retrain proprioceptive pathways without overwhelming a patient with impaired cerebellar modulation.

Question 5

Schiff-Sherrington phenomenon is characterized by which clinical presentation?

Accepted Answer

Flaccid pelvic limb paralysis with rigid thoracic limb extension

Answer

Schiff-Sherrington occurs with acute severe thoracolumbar lesions; release of border cells causes extensor rigidity of the thoracic limbs with pelvic limb paralysis.

CCAT Practice Test

CCAT Practice Test

CCAT Neurological Condition Rehabilitation 2