National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

How much hip flexion is generally required for normal gait pattern?

1. 5 degrees

2. 15 degrees

3. 25 degrees

4. 45 degrees

The correct answer is: 25 degrees

Normal gait requires a range of hip flexion to facilitate effective leg movement during walking. Typically, around 25 degrees of hip flexion is necessary at the beginning of the swing phase to allow for forward progression of the lower extremity and to ensure an efficient stride. This degree of hip flexion is important for achieving adequate ground clearance of the limb and for maintaining balance and stability throughout the gait cycle. The other values provided in the choices do not meet the functional requirements for normal ambulation. For instance, 5 degrees and 15 degrees of hip flexion are insufficient for proper limb advancement and may lead to compensatory movements that could affect overall gait efficiency. Similarly, while 45 degrees might seem adequate, it could result in excessive motion that may not be necessary for a standard walking pattern, potentially leading to instability or increased energy expenditure. Thus, 25 degrees is the optimal range for hip flexion during normal gait.