NPTE-PT Test Gait, Balance, and Orthotics Questions and Answers Flashcards

During the swing phase of gait, which muscle group is primarily responsible for dorsiflexion to ensure foot clearance?

Answer: Tibialis anterior

The tibialis anterior contracts concentrically during swing phase to dorsiflex the ankle and prevent foot drop.

A patient demonstrates a positive Trendelenburg sign on the right side during single-limb stance. Which muscle is most likely weak?

Answer: Right gluteus medius

A positive Trendelenburg sign indicates weakness of the gluteus medius on the stance limb side, causing the pelvis to drop on the swing side.

Which orthotic device is most appropriate for a patient with a flaccid dorsiflexor paralysis and intact plantarflexors?

Answer: Posterior leaf spring AFO

A posterior leaf spring AFO provides dorsiflexion assist during swing while allowing plantarflexion flexibility at push-off.

In normal gait, at what percentage of the gait cycle does the opposite foot make initial contact (double support ends)?

Answer: 10%

Initial double support occurs during approximately the first 10% of the gait cycle, ending when the opposite foot lifts off.

A patient with a transtibial amputation exhibits excessive knee flexion during midstance on the prosthetic side. What is the most likely cause?

Answer: Socket is aligned too far anterior

An anteriorly aligned socket shifts the ground reaction force posterior to the knee, creating a flexion moment during midstance.

Which balance assessment tool specifically measures anticipatory postural control during self-initiated perturbations?

Answer: Functional Reach Test

The Functional Reach Test measures the maximal distance a person can reach forward beyond arm's length while maintaining a fixed base of support, assessing anticipatory postural adjustments.