National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

A patient shows signs of spasticity alongside difficulty with coordinated movements. This is indicative of which condition?

1. Lumbar disk lesion

2. Multiple sclerosis

3. Cerebral palsy

4. Muscular dystrophy

The correct answer is: Cerebral palsy

The presence of spasticity alongside difficulty with coordinated movements is a characteristic manifestation of cerebral palsy. This condition is a neurodevelopmental disorder that primarily affects movement and posture due to abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain. Spasticity, which involves an abnormal increase in muscle tone and stiffness, is one of the most common types of movement disorders seen in individuals with cerebral palsy. In addition to spasticity, individuals with cerebral palsy often struggle with coordination and fine motor skills, which can further complicate their ability to perform everyday activities. The combination of these symptoms is indicative of the motor control issues associated with this condition. While lumbar disk lesions may cause pain and mobility issues, they typically do not present with spasticity or coordination problems in the same manner. Multiple sclerosis can also involve coordination problems; however, it is characterized more by episodes of neurological deficits and a variety of symptoms that may not include spasticity as a primary feature. Muscular dystrophy involves progressive muscle weakness and atrophy rather than the coordination issues that stem from spasticity. Therefore, cerebral palsy stands out as the most fitting diagnosis given the symptoms described.