Which bony landmarks should be palpated during a lower extremity assessment?

• A. Patella, medial and lateral malleoli, calcaneus, and joints of the toes
• B. Femur, tibia, fibula, and hip joint
• C. Talus, navicular, and cuneiform bones
• D. Coccyx, sacrum, and pelvic bones

Answer: (A)

In a lower extremity assessment, palpating the patella, medial and lateral malleoli, calcaneus, and joints of the toes is essential for evaluating the functionality and integrity of the lower limb. The patella, or kneecap, is an important structure that can indicate issues related to the knee joint. The medial and lateral malleoli are the bony prominences on either side of the ankle, providing key insight into the ankle joint's health and stability. The calcaneus, or heel bone, supports weight during walking and running, and its palpation assists in assessing the overall alignment and structure of the foot. Additionally, evaluating the joints of the toes helps in identifying potential issues related to mobility and function in the distal segments of the lower extremity.

The other options include important bony landmarks, but they do not comprehensively cover the most relevant structures for a typical lower extremity assessment that focuses on mobility, weight-bearing, and overall functionality. While the femur, tibia, and fibula are crucial for assessing the proximal and mid-portion of the leg, they do not encompass the full range of structures needed to evaluate ankle and foot function. The talus, navicular, and cuneiform bones