NPTE-PT Neuromuscular and Nervous Systems 2

Question 1

A patient presents with foot drop, weakness of ankle dorsiflexion, and sensory loss over the dorsum of the foot. Which nerve is most likely injured?

Accepted Answer

Common peroneal nerve

Answer

The common peroneal nerve innervates the muscles responsible for ankle dorsiflexion and eversion, and provides sensation to the dorsum of the foot.

Question 2

Which reflex arc component is responsible for detecting changes in muscle length?

Accepted Answer

Muscle spindle

Answer

Muscle spindles (intrafusal fibers) are stretch-sensitive receptors that detect changes in muscle length and rate of length change.

Question 3

A patient recovering from a stroke demonstrates hyperreflexia and increased muscle tone in the right upper extremity. Which descending pathway is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Corticospinal tract

Answer

Damage to the corticospinal (pyramidal) tract causes upper motor neuron signs including hyperreflexia, spasticity, and increased muscle tone.

Question 4

Which cranial nerve is tested when a patient is asked to shrug their shoulders against resistance?

Accepted Answer

CN XI

Answer

The accessory nerve (CN XI) innervates the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles, which are tested with shoulder shrugging and head rotation.

Question 5

During gait analysis, a patient shows excessive lateral trunk lean toward the stance leg. This compensatory strategy is most likely due to weakness of which muscle?

Accepted Answer

Gluteus medius

Answer

Gluteus medius weakness causes the Trendelenburg gait, where the trunk leans toward the weak side to shift the center of mass and reduce the hip abductor moment demand.

NPTE-PT Test Practice Test

NPTE-PT Test Practice Test

NPTE-PT Neuromuscular and Nervous Systems 2