CMT Orthopedic Special Tests & Differential Diagnosis

Question 1

The Hawkins-Kennedy test is performed to assess which condition?

Accepted Answer

Subacromial impingement

Answer

The Hawkins-Kennedy test compresses the supraspinatus tendon under the coracoacromial arch by internally rotating the shoulder at 90° of flexion, making it positive for subacromial impingement.

Question 2

A positive Phalen's test—wrist flexion held for 60 seconds reproducing paresthesia in the thumb, index, and middle fingers—most strongly indicates:

Accepted Answer

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Answer

Phalen's test increases pressure within the carpal tunnel, reproducing median nerve compression symptoms characteristic of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Question 3

Speed's test (resisted shoulder flexion with elbow extended and forearm supinated) is most specific for pathology of the:

Accepted Answer

Long head of the biceps tendon

Answer

Speed's test stresses the long head of the biceps tendon at the bicipital groove; anterior shoulder pain reproduced at that site indicates biceps tendinopathy.

Question 4

A positive Tinel's sign elicited by tapping posterior to the medial epicondyle most likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

Ulnar nerve entrapment at the cubital tunnel

Answer

Tapping over the ulnar nerve as it passes through the cubital tunnel posterior to the medial epicondyle produces tingling in the ring and small fingers, indicating cubital tunnel syndrome.

Question 5

Adson's test is most appropriate for screening which condition?

Accepted Answer

Thoracic outlet syndrome

Answer

Adson's test assesses neurovascular compression at the thoracic outlet by monitoring the radial pulse during ipsilateral head rotation and neck extension to evaluate for subclavian artery or brachial plexus compromise.

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(CMT) Certified Manual Therapist Practice Test

CMT Orthopedic Special Tests & Differential Diagnosis