NPTE-PT Test Test Gait, Balance, and Orthotics 1

Question 1

During the loading response phase of gait (0–12% of the gait cycle), the quadriceps act eccentrically primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Control knee flexion and absorb impact forces

Answer

Extend the hip and propel the body forward

Answer

Dorsiflex the ankle to prevent foot slap

Answer

Stabilize the subtalar joint in neutral

Question 2

A patient post-CVA demonstrates circumduction of the lower extremity during the swing phase. This compensatory movement most directly substitutes for inadequate:

Accepted Answer

Knee flexion and ankle dorsiflexion during swing

Answer

Hip extension during terminal stance

Answer

Hip abductor strength during single-limb support

Answer

Plantarflexor push-off at pre-swing

Question 3

On the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), a score below which threshold is most strongly associated with high fall risk and likely dependence on an assistive device for safe ambulation?

Accepted Answer

45 out of 56

Answer

20 out of 56

Answer

36 out of 56

Answer

50 out of 56

Question 4

Which muscle is the primary restraint controlling forward tibial progression during midstance, preventing excessive ankle dorsiflexion and maintaining upright posture?

Accepted Answer

Soleus

Answer

Tibialis anterior

Answer

Gastrocnemius

Answer

Peroneus longus

Question 5

A patient with a complete T12 spinal cord injury requires orthotic prescription for ambulation. Which orthotic is MOST appropriate to support ambulation in this patient?

Accepted Answer

Hip–knee–ankle–foot orthosis (HKAFO)

Answer

Supramalleolar orthosis (SMO)

Answer

Ankle–foot orthosis (AFO)

Answer

Knee–ankle–foot orthosis (KAFO)

Question 6

During the Functional Reach Test (FRT), what is being measured that makes it a valid clinical indicator of dynamic balance and fall risk?

Accepted Answer

The maximum forward distance a patient can reach while maintaining a fixed base of support standing

Answer

The maximum weight a patient can shift laterally while seated

Answer

The time required to complete a 360° turn from a standing position

Answer

The number of steps taken before requiring a balance correction