National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

During data collection, a patient demonstrates 3-/5 strength with hip flexion. Which of the following characteristics of gait would likely result from this finding?

1. Decreased step length

2. Increased stride length

3. Decreased step width

4. Increased cadence

The correct answer is: Decreased step length

A strength of 3-/5 in hip flexion indicates a noticeable weakness in the ability to flex the hip against resistance. This muscular impairment can significantly affect the mechanics of the gait cycle. Specifically, the patient's ability to initiate and propel the leg forward during the swing phase may be compromised, leading to a compensatory pattern. With reduced strength in hip flexion, the patient may find it challenging to bring the leg through adequately for each step. Consequently, this can lead to a decreased step length, as the patient may struggle to maintain normal movement patterns and may need to adopt a shorter stride to compensate for the weakness. A shorter step length can also help in maintaining balance and preventing falls, as the body seeks stability when one side of the lower extremity is weakened. In contrast, increased stride length, decreased step width, or increased cadence would not typically result from diminished strength in hip flexion, as these adjustments would require better control or strength that the patient does not possess due to the stated muscle weakness.