Therapeutic Interventions & Techniques Flashcards

Which proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) technique uses alternating contraction of agonist and antagonist to improve range of motion?

Answer: Slow reversal hold

Slow reversal hold alternates isotonic contractions of agonist and antagonist, promoting reciprocal inhibition and ROM gains.

A patient with chronic low back pain is treated with spinal manipulation. Which grade of Maitland mobilization involves large-amplitude movement at the end of available range?

Answer: Grade III

Grade III Maitland mobilizations are large-amplitude movements performed at the end of available range.

When applying iontophoresis for lateral epicondylitis, which ion polarity should dexamethasone be placed under?

Answer: Negative pole (cathode)

Dexamethasone carries a negative charge and must be placed under the cathode (negative pole) for effective iontophoretic delivery.

Which taping technique is designed to facilitate muscle activation by lifting the skin to improve lymphatic drainage and reduce pain?

Answer: Kinesio taping

Kinesio taping uses elastic tape applied with specific tensions to lift skin, reducing pressure on lymphatic channels and mechanoreceptors.

A physical therapist is using joint mobilization for a stiff glenohumeral joint. According to the convex-concave rule, which direction should the therapist mobilize the humeral head to improve flexion?

Answer: Posteriorly

Per the convex-concave rule, when a convex surface (humeral head) moves on a concave surface (glenoid), glide occurs opposite to bone movement, so posterior glide increases flexion.

Which intervention is MOST appropriate as initial treatment for acute compartment syndrome in the lower extremity?

Answer: Emergency fasciotomy

Acute compartment syndrome is a surgical emergency requiring immediate fasciotomy to decompress the affected compartment and prevent ischemic necrosis.

During neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), which parameter primarily determines the comfort of the stimulation?

Answer: Pulse duration (width)

Pulse duration most affects patient comfort; longer durations recruit more sensory fibers and affect accommodation, while shorter durations are generally better tolerated.