NPTE-PT Neuromuscular and Nervous Systems 3

Question 1

A patient demonstrates an inability to oppose the thumb and has wasting of the thenar eminence. Which nerve is most likely compressed?

Accepted Answer

Median nerve at the wrist

Answer

Carpal tunnel syndrome involves median nerve compression at the wrist, causing thenar wasting and loss of thumb opposition due to opponens pollicis weakness.

Question 2

Which area of the brain is primarily responsible for the learning and coordination of skilled, sequential movements?

Accepted Answer

Cerebellum

Answer

The cerebellum coordinates the timing, sequencing, and precision of skilled voluntary movements and is critical for motor learning.

Question 3

A patient presents with a positive Romberg test. What does this finding indicate?

Accepted Answer

Proprioceptive deficit with visual compensation

Answer

A positive Romberg test indicates that the patient can maintain balance with eyes open (using vision) but loses balance with eyes closed, suggesting proprioceptive or dorsal column impairment.

Question 4

Which type of motor neuron disease is characterized by both upper and lower motor neuron signs occurring simultaneously?

Accepted Answer

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Answer

ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) is characterized by simultaneous degeneration of both upper motor neurons (corticospinal tract) and lower motor neurons (anterior horn cells).

Question 5

A therapist observes fasciculations and muscle atrophy in a patient's right quadriceps. These findings are most consistent with a lesion of which structure?

Accepted Answer

Lower motor neuron

Answer

Fasciculations and muscle atrophy are classic lower motor neuron signs resulting from denervation of the muscle.

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NPTE-PT Neuromuscular and Nervous Systems 3