APEA Neurology Practice Test

Tandem walking is a balance and coordination test that uses a narrow base of support by having the patient place the heel of one foot directly in front of the toes of the other foot, forming a straight, narrow line. This precise alignment taxes motor planning, proprioception, and dynamic balance, so even mild cerebellar dysfunction or sensory ataxia shows up as unsteadiness, swaying, or stepping off the line. Walking heel-to-toe demonstrates this exact pattern, making it the best example. In contrast, walking across the room uses a wider base of support and isn’t challenging in the same way; walking on the toes and then the heels misses the continuous straight-line sequence; and walking with a shallow knee bend alters gait mechanics without embodying the tight heel-to-toe progression.