National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Group Fitness Instructor Practice Exam

With which condition is a loss of balance and coordination most likely?

1. Diabetes

2. Stroke

3. Hypertension

4. Osteoporosis

The correct answer is: Stroke

A loss of balance and coordination is most commonly associated with a stroke due to the nature of the condition affecting the brain. A stroke occurs when there is an interruption of blood flow to the brain, which can lead to neurological deficits that impact motor control, balance, and coordination. Individuals who have experienced a stroke may have weakness on one side of the body, impaired vision, and issues with proprioception—all of which significantly contribute to challenges in maintaining balance and coordinated movement. In contrast, while diabetes can lead to complications such as neuropathy, which might affect balance indirectly, it does not typically cause the immediate and severe impact on coordination associated with a stroke. Hypertension primarily affects cardiovascular health and may contribute to stroke risk but does not directly result in balance issues. Osteoporosis involves the weakening of bones and increases the risk of fractures, particularly upon falls, but does not inherently affect balance or coordination as a primary symptom. Therefore, the association of loss of balance and coordination is most directly linked to the impact a stroke has on the brain's function.