MCQ Flashcards

Which cranial nerve is responsible for the gag reflex (afferent limb)?

Answer: Cranial nerve IX

CN IX (glossopharyngeal) carries the afferent signal from the posterior pharynx for the gag reflex, while CN X carries the efferent motor response.

A PT measures a patient's shoulder ROM at 160° of flexion. According to the APTA, the normal value for shoulder flexion is:

Answer: 180°

Normal shoulder flexion is 180° according to standard physical therapy reference values.

Which type of muscle contraction produces the greatest force output?

Answer: Eccentric

Eccentric contractions produce the greatest tension because cross-bridge cycling is combined with external stretching forces.

A patient reports that pain decreases with walking and worsens with prolonged sitting. This pattern is MOST consistent with:

Answer: Discogenic low back pain

Discogenic pain typically worsens with flexion-loaded postures like prolonged sitting and improves with extension activities such as walking.

When applying TENS for pain modulation using the gate control mechanism, which parameters are used?

Answer: High frequency (80–150 Hz), low intensity (sensory level)

Conventional (high-frequency, low-intensity) TENS activates large-diameter Aβ fibers to close the pain gate at the dorsal horn.

Which balance component is primarily tested by the Romberg test?

Answer: Vestibular and proprioceptive integration

The Romberg test assesses somatosensory and vestibular contributions to balance by removing the visual input (eyes closed).

A patient with COPD is completing pulmonary rehabilitation. Target SpO2 during exercise should be maintained at a minimum of:

Answer: 92%

Exercise should be modified or supplemental oxygen provided if SpO2 drops below 88–90%; 88% is the clinical threshold, but 92% is the safe exercise target.