MMT Special Considerations 3

Question 1

In a patient with Guillain-Barré syndrome in the ascending phase, MMT should be performed:

Accepted Answer

With caution, as overexertion can worsen weakness

Answer

During the acute ascending phase, aggressive testing or exercise can exacerbate weakness and is contraindicated; gentle, careful assessment is appropriate.

Question 2

When testing a patient with significant edema in the tested limb, which consideration is most relevant?

Accepted Answer

Edema may restrict ROM and affect the ability to achieve test position

Answer

Edema can mechanically limit joint ROM and alter the ability to assume and maintain the standard test position, affecting grade accuracy.

Question 3

A patient substitutes by laterally flexing the trunk when attempting hip abduction MMT. This substitution pattern most likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

Weak gluteus medius

Answer

Trunk lateral flexion toward the tested side is a classic substitution when the gluteus medius is too weak to abduct the hip independently.

Question 4

Which neurological condition requires the clinician to test muscles at the same time of day each session to ensure valid comparisons?

Accepted Answer

Myasthenia gravis

Answer

Myasthenia gravis causes fatigable weakness that fluctuates throughout the day, so consistent test timing is critical for valid serial comparisons.

Question 5

For a patient with a recent rotator cuff repair, the surgeon restricts active shoulder abduction for 6 weeks. The most appropriate MMT approach is to:

Accepted Answer

Document the restriction and defer prohibited muscle testing

Answer

Surgical precautions must be respected; deferred testing should be documented with the reason to maintain safety and medico-legal compliance.

(MMT) Manual Muscle Testing Practice Test

(MMT) Manual Muscle Testing Practice Test

MMT Special Considerations 3