CO Patient Assessment & Evaluation 2

Question 1

When assessing a patient with foot drop, which gait deviation is most commonly observed?

Accepted Answer

Steppage gait

Answer

Steppage gait occurs when the patient excessively flexes the hip and knee to clear the foot during swing phase due to weak dorsiflexors.

Question 2

A certified orthotist is evaluating a patient with scoliosis. Which measurement is essential when determining Cobb angle severity?

Accepted Answer

Angle between endplates of the most tilted vertebrae

Answer

The Cobb angle is measured as the angle between lines drawn along the endplates of the most tilted vertebrae above and below the curve apex.

Question 3

During assessment of a diabetic patient, which finding would most urgently require referral before orthotic fitting?

Accepted Answer

Open, non-healing ulcer with signs of infection

Answer

An open, infected wound requires immediate medical management prior to orthotic fitting to prevent further complications or sepsis.

Question 4

When documenting passive range of motion for ankle dorsiflexion with the knee extended, the normal expected value is approximately:

Accepted Answer

10–20 degrees

Answer

Normal passive ankle dorsiflexion with knee extended is approximately 10–20 degrees, reflecting gastrocnemius-soleus flexibility.

Question 5

A patient reports increased medial knee pain when wearing a newly fitted KAFO. The most appropriate first assessment step is to:

Accepted Answer

Check the medial upright alignment relative to the joint axis

Answer

Medial pain from a KAFO commonly indicates the medial upright is pressing due to misalignment with the anatomical knee joint axis.

(CO) Certified Orthoptist Practice Test