NPTE-PT Neuromuscular System Interventions 3

Question 1

A patient with unilateral vestibular hypofunction is prescribed gaze stabilization exercises. What is the PRIMARY mechanism of these exercises?

Accepted Answer

Promoting adaptation of the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR)

Answer

Gaze stabilization exercises (head moving while eyes stay fixed on a target) drive VOR adaptation so the brain recalibrates the reflex to compensate for vestibular hypofunction.

Question 2

The Epley canalith repositioning maneuver is the first-line treatment for which condition?

Accepted Answer

Posterior canal BPPV causing brief positional vertigo

Answer

The Epley maneuver uses gravity and head positioning to move displaced otoconia from the posterior semicircular canal back into the utricle, resolving posterior canal BPPV.

Question 3

During treadmill training with body weight support (BWS) for a patient with incomplete SCI, which variable should be PROGRESSIVELY reduced as the patient improves?

Accepted Answer

Percentage of body weight supported

Answer

BWS is systematically decreased (often starting at 30–40% support) as the patient gains strength and motor control, progressively loading the lower extremities toward full weight-bearing.

Question 4

A patient with Parkinson's disease benefits from rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) during gait training. What is the PRIMARY mechanism?

Accepted Answer

External auditory rhythm substitutes for impaired internal timing from basal ganglia dysfunction

Answer

Parkinson's disease impairs internal rhythm generation in the basal ganglia; an external metronome or musical beat provides a substitute timing signal that the motor system can lock onto.

Question 5

Which intervention has the STRONGEST evidence for producing long-term functional improvement in patients with upper motor neuron spasticity?

Accepted Answer

Task-specific training emphasizing active movement

Answer

Task-specific training drives neuroplasticity and functional carry-over; while stretching and modalities can temporarily reduce tone, active task practice produces the most durable functional gains.

NPTE-PT Test Practice Test

NPTE-PT Test Practice Test

NPTE-PT Neuromuscular System Interventions 3