CCAT Therapeutic Modalities and Application 3

Question 1

During joint mobilization in a dog with hip osteoarthritis, which grade of Maitland joint mobilization is used to treat pain rather than stiffness?

Accepted Answer

Grade I or II

Answer

Grades I and II are small-amplitude oscillations within resistance-free range used primarily for pain modulation, not stretching.

Question 2

Which aquatic therapy parameter is most important to monitor when treating a brachycephalic dog breed in a hydrotherapy pool?

Accepted Answer

Water temperature and duration to prevent overheating

Answer

Brachycephalic breeds are prone to hyperthermia and respiratory distress, making water temperature and session duration critical safety parameters.

Question 3

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) differs from TENS primarily because NMES:

Accepted Answer

Produces visible muscle contractions via motor nerve stimulation

Answer

NMES uses sufficient current intensity to depolarize motor nerves, producing muscle contractions for strengthening or re-education.

Question 4

A therapist applies moist heat to a dog's hip before manual therapy. What is the PRIMARY therapeutic goal of this preparatory thermal modality?

Accepted Answer

Increase tissue extensibility and reduce muscle guarding

Answer

Superficial heat increases tissue temperature, reducing muscle spasm and improving collagen extensibility before stretching or manipulation.

Question 5

Which condition is a specific indication for cryotherapy rather than thermotherapy in a canine rehabilitation patient?

Accepted Answer

Acute soft tissue injury within 72 hours

Answer

Cryotherapy is indicated in the acute phase (first 48–72 hours) to reduce inflammation, edema, and pain via vasoconstriction.

CCAT Practice Test