National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

When the vertical ground reaction force passes anterior to the knee joint, which moment is created?

1. Internal Flexor Moment

2. External Flexor Moment

3. Internal Extensor Moment

4. External Extensor Moment

The correct answer is: External Extensor Moment

When the vertical ground reaction force passes anterior to the knee joint, it creates an external extensor moment. This is because the ground reaction force acts in a direction that is in front of the knee, resulting in an external torque that tends to extend the knee. The moment created by the ground reaction force can be analyzed through the lever arm concept. When the force line of action is positioned in front of the knee, it increases the moment arm relative to the knee joint axis, thus applying a torque that promotes extension. This extensor moment opposes the flexor moment created by the muscles responsible for knee flexion, such as the hamstrings. In understanding knee mechanics, recognizing the position of the ground reaction force in relation to the joint axis is essential for assessing the type of moments produced during various activities, such as standing, walking, or running. Thus, the identification of this moment as an external extensor moment is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of knee function and movement strategies in rehabilitation and sports performance.