When a patient can resist gravity but cannot overcome the examiner's force, what strength level does this represent?

When a patient is able to resist gravity but struggles to overcome the examiner's force, this indicates a moderate level of weakness. In the context of muscle strength assessment, this level is significant because the patient demonstrates some degree of strength; they can perform an activity against gravity, which shows that muscle function is present. However, the inability to overcome external resistance from the examiner suggests that there is not enough strength to handle typical functional demands or tasks that require greater exertion.

This indicates that the patient is functioning at a level where they have lost some muscle strength, making everyday activities potentially challenging but still maintaining some effective capacity. Recognizing this level can help healthcare professionals tailor rehabilitation or intervention strategies effectively, as they are aware that the patient's strength is compromised but not entirely absent.