The sentence describes James, who was bedridden for months, leading to muscle atrophy (weakening or wasting away of muscles). This condition initially $\qquad$ his ability to walk or lift heavy objects.

Key points:
1. Muscle atrophy weakens physical capabilities.
2. The blank should describe how this condition affected his abilities (walking/lifting) initially (i.e., in the short term after being bedridden).

Analyzing the Options
We need two words that mean "weakened," "hindered," or "reduced" his abilities.
A. belittled
- Meaning: Made something seem unimportant.
- Fit: Doesn't apply to physical abilities. "Belittled" is more about perception, not physical impact.
- Reject.
B. castigated
- Meaning: Severely reprimanded or criticized.
- Fit: Irrelevant to physical abilities.
- Reject.
C. hampered
- Meaning: Hindered or impeded.
- Fit: Perfect. Muscle atrophy would hinder walking/lifting.
- Select.
D. bolstered
- Meaning: Supported or strengthened.
- Fit: Opposite of what's needed. Atrophy doesn't improve abilities.
- Reject.
E. curtailed
- Meaning: Reduced or restricted.
- Fit: Accurate. Atrophy would reduce physical abilities.
- Select.
F. improved
- Meaning: Made better.
- Fit: Contradicts the context (atrophy weakens muscles).
- Reject.

Why "Hampered" and "Curtailed" Work
- Hampered: Directly implies that his abilities were obstructed or slowed.
- Curtailed: Suggests his abilities were reduced in scope or effectiveness.

Both fit the context of muscle atrophy limiting physical function.
Why Other Options Fail
- Belittled/castigated: Don't describe physical effects.
- Bolstered/improved: Contradict the negative impact of atrophy.

Final Answer
C. hampered and E. curtailed are the correct choices.

Correct Answers: C, E