Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy Flashcards
6 cards from real MPT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy flashcards as text
What is the primary goal of joint mobilization in physical therapy?
Answer: Restore normal joint arthrokinematics and reduce pain
Joint mobilization aims to restore normal arthrokinematic motion, reduce pain, and improve joint function.
A patient cannot perform a heel-to-toe walk without losing balance. Which structure is most likely impaired?
Answer: Cerebellum or proprioceptive pathways
Tandem gait (heel-to-toe walking) assesses cerebellar function and proprioception; failure suggests compromise of these systems.
What does 'end feel' describe in a musculoskeletal assessment?
Answer: Quality of resistance felt at the end of passive range of motion
End feel is the quality of resistance the clinician perceives at the end of passive joint range of motion, which can be normal or pathological.
Which special test assesses for meniscal pathology in the knee?
Answer: Apley compression test
The Apley compression test applies axial load with rotation to stress the menisci, reproducing pain in cases of meniscal tear.
Which mobilization technique involves movement of one joint surface on the other in a sliding manner?
Answer: Glide (translation)
A glide or translational mobilization moves one articular surface parallel to the treatment plane of the other surface.
What is the Thomas test used to assess?
Answer: Hip flexor tightness (iliopsoas/rectus femoris)
The Thomas test assesses hip flexor tightness by holding one knee to the chest and observing if the contralateral thigh rises from the table.