Gower's sign is demonstrated by which action?

Prepare for the Muscular Dystrophy Test with comprehensive flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Access detailed hints and explanations for each question to enhance your study experience. Equip yourself for success on your upcoming exam!

Multiple Choice

Gower's sign is demonstrated by which action?

Explanation:
Gower's sign shows proximal lower‑limb weakness, especially in the hip extensors. When rising from the floor, the hips and knees can’t extend smoothly, so the person must place the hands on the thighs and push up to stand, effectively climbing to a standing position. This compensatory pattern is classic in Duchenne muscular dystrophy and other proximal myopathies. Dragging the feet while walking points to distal weakness or foot-drop, leaning forward to stand without using hands isn’t the typical response to proximal weakness, and standing up easily from the floor indicates normal strength.

Gower's sign shows proximal lower‑limb weakness, especially in the hip extensors. When rising from the floor, the hips and knees can’t extend smoothly, so the person must place the hands on the thighs and push up to stand, effectively climbing to a standing position. This compensatory pattern is classic in Duchenne muscular dystrophy and other proximal myopathies. Dragging the feet while walking points to distal weakness or foot-drop, leaning forward to stand without using hands isn’t the typical response to proximal weakness, and standing up easily from the floor indicates normal strength.

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