National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

For increasing active dorsiflexion during the swing phase of gait, which electrode placement is most appropriate during electrical stimulation?

1. Posterior tibialis muscle belly

2. Gastrocnemius and anterior tibialis muscle bellies

3. Fibularis longus and brevis muscle bellies

4. Anterior tibialis muscle belly and fibularis (peroneal) nerve

The correct answer is: Anterior tibialis muscle belly and fibularis (peroneal) nerve

The most appropriate electrode placement for increasing active dorsiflexion during the swing phase of gait involves targeting the anterior tibialis muscle belly and the fibularis (peroneal) nerve. The anterior tibialis is primarily responsible for dorsiflexing the foot, which is essential during the swing phase of walking to clear the toes from the ground. By stimulating this muscle directly, the activation will lead to improved dorsiflexion, aiding in proper foot positioning for an efficient gait cycle. Additionally, stimulating the fibularis (peroneal) nerve can help enhance muscle coordination and function during the swing phase. The fibularis muscles assist in stabilizing the foot and can influence the overall movement pattern through neuromuscular facilitation. This combination effectively ensures that there is not only increased dorsiflexion through direct muscle stimulation but also optimal functional activation for gait. This enhances the overall mechanics of the lower limb during walking, particularly in the swing phase when proper foot clearance is needed.