National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

During walking, a patient with spastic cerebral palsy will demonstrate weight bearing primarily on which side of the foot?

1. Heel of the foot

2. Lateral side of the foot

3. Medial side of the foot

4. None (as the foot is not in contact with ground)

The correct answer is: Lateral side of the foot

In the context of spastic cerebral palsy, patients often exhibit abnormal muscle tone and movement, which can affect their gait mechanics significantly. A common pattern observed in individuals with spastic cerebral palsy is equinus gait, where the individual tends to plant the foot in a way that favors the lateral aspect during weight-bearing activities such as walking. This preference for the lateral side of the foot can be attributed to several factors associated with spasticity. The muscles on the medial side may be tighter or more spastic, limiting the ability to control movement and weight distribution across the foot. Consequently, this leads to a reliance on the lateral aspect for stability and support while walking. The lateral weight-bearing pattern helps to avoid falling, as it may provide a more stable base given the abnormal muscle tone and coordination issues inherent in this condition. Understanding this aspect of gait can aid physical therapists in designing interventions that aim to improve balance, alignment, and overall functional mobility in patients with spastic cerebral palsy, emphasizing strategies to encourage more even weight distribution and proper foot mechanics.