National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

In a patient with cerebellar dysfunction, which finding is most likely to be observed during an examination?

1. Bradykinesia

2. Festinating gait

3. Impairments in muscle force generation

4. Impairments in the timing of muscle activation

The correct answer is: Impairments in the timing of muscle activation

In evaluating a patient with cerebellar dysfunction, one of the hallmark signs is the impairment in the timing of muscle activation. The cerebellum plays a critical role in coordinating movements and timing; it is essential for the smooth execution of voluntary motor tasks. When cerebellar function is compromised, patients may experience difficulties in timing their movements accurately, which manifests as ataxia—characterized by unsteady gait, clumsiness, and problems with balance. This dysfunction can lead to challenges in executing precise movements, as the cerebellum integrates sensory information to plan and adjust motor activity in real-time. Therefore, patients often exhibit dysmetria (overshooting or undershooting of movement), intention tremors, and problems with modulating force and timing, making it difficult to perform activities that require coordination. While bradykinesia is commonly associated with basal ganglia disorders, and festinating gait is related to conditions such as Parkinson's disease, these are less relevant in the context of pure cerebellar dysfunction. Impairments in muscle force generation also do occur due to muscle weakness or other neurological factors, but the primary manifestation in cerebellar dysfunction revolves around the timing and coordination of muscle activations, making this the most expected finding during