Patient Assessment & Measurement Flashcards

When evaluating a diabetic patient for a foot orthosis, which finding represents the HIGHEST risk for ulceration that must be documented?

Answer: Callus under the 1st metatarsal head with absent protective sensation

The combination of callus formation (indicating repetitive stress) and absent protective sensation (neuropathy) creates the highest ulceration risk requiring immediate orthotic intervention.

A measurement of the popliteal angle in a pediatric patient primarily assesses flexibility of which muscle group?

Answer: Hamstrings

The popliteal angle test measures hamstring flexibility by evaluating the degree of knee extension achievable with the hip flexed at 90 degrees.

A fitter notices asymmetrical skin folds at the waist during assessment of a patient needing a spinal orthosis. This finding MOST likely indicates:

Answer: Possible coronal plane spinal deformity requiring imaging review

Asymmetrical waist skin folds during standing assessment can be an external sign of coronal scoliosis or spinal deformity and warrant review of radiographic findings.

When fitting a wrist orthosis for carpal tunnel syndrome, which wrist position is generally supported by clinical evidence for symptom relief?

Answer: Neutral to slight extension (0-15 degrees)

Neutral to slight wrist extension (0-15 degrees) minimizes carpal tunnel pressure while maintaining functional position for nighttime and activity-based orthosis use.

During a lower extremity assessment, a patient demonstrates a positive Thomas test. This finding indicates:

Answer: Hip flexor tightness/contracture

A positive Thomas test, where the contralateral hip rises off the table during testing, indicates a hip flexor (iliopsoas) tightness or contracture.

For a patient requiring a dynamic elbow orthosis, which measurement determines the axis placement of the orthotic elbow joint?

Answer: The medial and lateral epicondyle centers projecting the anatomical elbow axis

The orthotic elbow joint axis must align with the anatomical axis, centered on the medial and lateral epicondyles, to prevent migration and joint stress during movement.

Which step in the patient assessment process is REQUIRED before finalizing measurements for a definitive custom orthosis?

Answer: Reviewing physician prescription and diagnosis

Reviewing the physician prescription and diagnosis is mandatory before custom orthosis fabrication to ensure the device matches the clinical order and patient's documented need.