BPT2015 | BPT2015 Physiotherapy Exam 2
Version 3 | Questions with Correct Answers and
Expert Explanation for Each Question | Rajiv
Gandhi University of Health Sciences
1. During a gait assessment, a patient exhibits a downward pelvic tilt on the swing
side. Which muscle is likely weak on the stance side?
A. Gluteus Maximus
B. Gluteus Medius
C. Iliopsoas
D. Adductor Longus
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: The Trendelenburg sign occurs when the hip abductors,
specifically the gluteus medius, fail to stabilize the pelvis during the stance phase.
This results in the contralateral side of the pelvis dropping as the weight shifts.
Biomechanically, this indicates a failure of the lateral stability mechanism of the hip
joint. Therapists must focus on targeted strengthening of the abductor group to
correct this movement dysfunction. Proper pelvic alignment is essential for efficient
energy expenditure during normal locomotion.
,2. Which class of lever system is most common in the human body, characterized by
the effort being between the fulcrum and the resistance?
A. Third-class lever
B. Second-class lever
C. First-class lever
D. Fourth-class lever
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Third-class levers are the most prevalent type in the
musculoskeletal system, such as the elbow joint during flexion. In this arrangement,
the muscle force is applied closer to the joint than the resistance being moved. While
this creates a mechanical disadvantage for force, it allows for significantly greater
speed and range of motion. Understanding these mechanics is vital for calculating
joint loads during functional rehabilitation. Exercises must be prescribed with
consideration of how these lever arms affect tissue stress.
3. An increased anterior pelvic tilt and lumbar lordosis are clinical markers for which
of the following syndromes?
A. Upper Crossed Syndrome
B. Flat Back Syndrome
C. Lower Crossed Syndrome
,D. Sway Back Posture
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Lower Crossed Syndrome involves a specific pattern of muscle
imbalance involving tight hip flexors and weak abdominals. This imbalance creates
an anterior pelvic tilt and an exaggerated curve in the lumbar spine. Biomechanical
analysis shows that this posture increases the shear forces on the lower lumbar
vertebrae. Rehabilitation focuses on stretching the overactive muscles and
strengthening the underactive stabilizers like the glutes. Restoring neutral pelvic
alignment is the primary goal of posture correction in these patients.
4. Which type of muscle contraction involves no change in the muscle length while
tension is generated?
A. Concentric
B. Eccentric
C. Isometric
D. Isokinetic
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Isometric contractions occur when the internal force
generated by the muscle equals the external resistance applied. During this process,
no visible joint movement takes place despite the significant recruitment of motor
, units. These contractions are often used in early-stage rehabilitation to maintain
strength without stressing healing joints. Biomechanically, they provide a stable
foundation for stabilizing posture and joint positions. Therapists utilize isometric
holds to improve neuromuscular control before progressing to dynamic movements.
5. A ‘vaulting gait’ is a compensatory mechanism most often used to address which
specific problem?
A. Difficulty with foot clearance during swing phase
B. Hip flexor weakness
C. Quadriceps spasticity
D. Excessive lumbar lordosis
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Vaulting gait occurs when the patient rises onto the toes of the
stance limb to clear the swing limb. This is typically seen in patients with knee or
ankle stiffness who cannot effectively shorten their leg. By increasing the height of
the center of mass, the patient avoids dragging their toes on the ground. This
compensatory strategy is highly inefficient and increases the energy cost of walking.
Rehabilitation should target the specific joint restriction to restore a more natural
gait cycle.
Version 3 | Questions with Correct Answers and
Expert Explanation for Each Question | Rajiv
Gandhi University of Health Sciences
1. During a gait assessment, a patient exhibits a downward pelvic tilt on the swing
side. Which muscle is likely weak on the stance side?
A. Gluteus Maximus
B. Gluteus Medius
C. Iliopsoas
D. Adductor Longus
Correct Answer: B
Expert Explanation: The Trendelenburg sign occurs when the hip abductors,
specifically the gluteus medius, fail to stabilize the pelvis during the stance phase.
This results in the contralateral side of the pelvis dropping as the weight shifts.
Biomechanically, this indicates a failure of the lateral stability mechanism of the hip
joint. Therapists must focus on targeted strengthening of the abductor group to
correct this movement dysfunction. Proper pelvic alignment is essential for efficient
energy expenditure during normal locomotion.
,2. Which class of lever system is most common in the human body, characterized by
the effort being between the fulcrum and the resistance?
A. Third-class lever
B. Second-class lever
C. First-class lever
D. Fourth-class lever
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Third-class levers are the most prevalent type in the
musculoskeletal system, such as the elbow joint during flexion. In this arrangement,
the muscle force is applied closer to the joint than the resistance being moved. While
this creates a mechanical disadvantage for force, it allows for significantly greater
speed and range of motion. Understanding these mechanics is vital for calculating
joint loads during functional rehabilitation. Exercises must be prescribed with
consideration of how these lever arms affect tissue stress.
3. An increased anterior pelvic tilt and lumbar lordosis are clinical markers for which
of the following syndromes?
A. Upper Crossed Syndrome
B. Flat Back Syndrome
C. Lower Crossed Syndrome
,D. Sway Back Posture
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Lower Crossed Syndrome involves a specific pattern of muscle
imbalance involving tight hip flexors and weak abdominals. This imbalance creates
an anterior pelvic tilt and an exaggerated curve in the lumbar spine. Biomechanical
analysis shows that this posture increases the shear forces on the lower lumbar
vertebrae. Rehabilitation focuses on stretching the overactive muscles and
strengthening the underactive stabilizers like the glutes. Restoring neutral pelvic
alignment is the primary goal of posture correction in these patients.
4. Which type of muscle contraction involves no change in the muscle length while
tension is generated?
A. Concentric
B. Eccentric
C. Isometric
D. Isokinetic
Correct Answer: C
Expert Explanation: Isometric contractions occur when the internal force
generated by the muscle equals the external resistance applied. During this process,
no visible joint movement takes place despite the significant recruitment of motor
, units. These contractions are often used in early-stage rehabilitation to maintain
strength without stressing healing joints. Biomechanically, they provide a stable
foundation for stabilizing posture and joint positions. Therapists utilize isometric
holds to improve neuromuscular control before progressing to dynamic movements.
5. A ‘vaulting gait’ is a compensatory mechanism most often used to address which
specific problem?
A. Difficulty with foot clearance during swing phase
B. Hip flexor weakness
C. Quadriceps spasticity
D. Excessive lumbar lordosis
Correct Answer: A
Expert Explanation: Vaulting gait occurs when the patient rises onto the toes of the
stance limb to clear the swing limb. This is typically seen in patients with knee or
ankle stiffness who cannot effectively shorten their leg. By increasing the height of
the center of mass, the patient avoids dragging their toes on the ground. This
compensatory strategy is highly inefficient and increases the energy cost of walking.
Rehabilitation should target the specific joint restriction to restore a more natural
gait cycle.
