MMT Clinical Applications 5

Question 1

When comparing MMT grades between two sessions for a patient in a clinical trial, which factor most significantly threatens intra-rater reliability?

Accepted Answer

Inconsistent hand placement and stabilization between sessions

Answer

Variation in hand placement and stabilization changes the mechanical advantage and direction of resistance, making grades incomparable between sessions.

Question 2

A patient with a brachial plexus upper trunk (Erb's) lesion is evaluated. Which combination of MMT findings is expected?

Accepted Answer

Weak shoulder abduction, external rotation, and elbow flexion; intact wrist and hand function

Answer

Upper trunk (C5-C6) injury causes the classic 'waiter's tip' posture with weakness of shoulder abduction/external rotation and elbow flexion, sparing the hand.

Question 3

A therapist applies resistance proximally near the knee instead of distally at the ankle when testing the hip flexors. How does this affect the torque demand on the tested muscle?

Accepted Answer

Decreases the resistance arm, making the test easier

Answer

Moving resistance proximally shortens the resistance arm of the lever, reducing the torque required from the hip flexors and making the test easier (potentially inflating the grade).

Question 4

In a patient with hemiplegia following stroke, why is MMT considered an incomplete measure of upper extremity function?

Accepted Answer

MMT grades isolated strength but does not capture synergy patterns, spasticity, or motor control quality

Answer

Post-stroke motor impairment involves abnormal synergy patterns and spasticity that MMT's isolated muscle testing cannot fully capture, necessitating additional functional assessments.

Question 5

A child with cerebral palsy (spastic diplegia) has MMT performed on the hip adductors. Which finding best distinguishes true muscle weakness from spasticity-limited range?

Accepted Answer

Testing the muscle in a shortened position reduces stretch-reflex interference and better reflects voluntary strength

Answer

Testing in a shortened position reduces stretch on the muscle spindle, minimizing reflex-driven resistance and allowing a more accurate assessment of voluntary contractile strength.

(MMT) Manual Muscle Testing Practice Test

(MMT) Manual Muscle Testing Practice Test

MMT Clinical Applications 5