DPT Patient Evaluation & Diagnosis 2

Question 1

A patient reports pain that worsens with lumbar extension and improves with flexion. Which diagnosis is MOST consistent with this pattern?

Accepted Answer

Lumbar spinal stenosis

Answer

Lumbar spinal stenosis classically worsens with extension (narrowing the canal) and improves with flexion (widening it).

Question 2

During the Thomas Test, the contralateral leg rises off the table while the tested hip is held in maximal flexion. This finding indicates tightness of the:

Accepted Answer

Hip flexors (iliopsoas)

Answer

A positive Thomas Test with the contralateral leg rising indicates iliopsoas tightness, as the hip cannot fully extend against gravity.

Question 3

A 70-year-old presents with sudden onset of severe unilateral facial droop, arm weakness, and slurred speech. The PT's FIRST action should be:

Accepted Answer

Call 911 immediately

Answer

These signs are a medical emergency consistent with stroke; the PT must activate emergency services immediately before any further assessment.

Question 4

Which special test assesses for thoracic outlet syndrome by reproducing symptoms when the arm is abducted to 90° and externally rotated with repeated fist clenching?

Accepted Answer

Roos test (EAST)

Answer

The Roos test (Elevated Arm Stress Test) reproduces symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome through sustained arm elevation and repetitive grip.

Question 5

On the ICF model, a patient's inability to return to work as a carpenter due to shoulder pain best represents which component?

Accepted Answer

Participation restriction

Answer

Inability to fulfill a life role (occupation) is classified as a participation restriction in the ICF framework.

(DPT) Board Certified Doctor of Physical Therapy Practice Test

(DPT) Board Certified Doctor of Physical Therapy Practice Test

DPT Patient Evaluation & Diagnosis 2