ATC Clinical Assessment 5

Question 1

A football lineman presents with weakness of shoulder abduction, external rotation, and elbow flexion following a direct blow to the neck. Which structure is MOST likely involved?

Accepted Answer

Upper brachial plexus (Erb's point)

Answer

Upper brachial plexus injuries (C5–C6, Erb's point) present with weakness of shoulder abduction/external rotation and elbow flexion, the 'waiter's tip' posture.

Question 2

Which postural deviation is characterized by excessive anterior pelvic tilt, increased lumbar lordosis, and hip flexor tightness?

Accepted Answer

Lower crossed syndrome

Answer

Lower crossed syndrome (Janda) involves tight hip flexors and lumbar extensors paired with inhibited deep abdominals and gluteals, resulting in anterior pelvic tilt.

Question 3

An athlete with a suspected femoral neck stress fracture is assessed using the fulcrum test. A positive finding is:

Accepted Answer

Apprehension or pain when a fulcrum force is applied to the mid-femur

Answer

The fulcrum test applies a bending force across the femoral shaft; pain or apprehension localizing to the femoral neck region suggests a stress fracture.

Question 4

Which assessment finding would MOST concern an athletic trainer evaluating an athlete with low back pain, suggesting possible cauda equina syndrome requiring immediate referral?

Accepted Answer

Bilateral saddle anesthesia and loss of bowel/bladder control

Answer

Cauda equina syndrome is a surgical emergency characterized by bilateral saddle anesthesia and bowel/bladder dysfunction due to compression of the cauda equina nerve roots.

Question 5

During an exertional heat illness evaluation, which finding distinguishes exertional heat stroke from heat exhaustion?

Accepted Answer

Core temperature above 40°C (104°F) with CNS dysfunction

Answer

Exertional heat stroke is defined by a rectal temperature >40°C combined with central nervous system dysfunction (confusion, altered consciousness), distinguishing it from heat exhaustion.

(ATC) Certified Athletic Trainer Practice Test

(ATC) Certified Athletic Trainer Practice Test

ATC Clinical Assessment 5