Practice Questions Flashcards

A volleyball player has a positive empty can test and weakness with shoulder abduction. Which structure is MOST likely injured?

Answer: Supraspinatus

The empty can test isolates the supraspinatus; a positive result indicates supraspinatus pathology.

Which type of muscle contraction produces the greatest force output?

Answer: Eccentric

Eccentric contractions generate the greatest force due to the contribution of passive elastic elements along with active cross-bridge cycling.

When applying a compression wrap for an acute ankle sprain, the wrap should be applied in which direction?

Answer: From distal to proximal

Compression wraps are applied distal to proximal to promote venous return and minimize distal edema.

A gymnast presents with pain in the anatomical snuffbox after a fall on an outstretched hand. Which bone injury must be ruled out?

Answer: Scaphoid fracture

Anatomical snuffbox tenderness following a FOOSH mechanism is a classic presentation of a scaphoid fracture.

Which electrotherapy modality is MOST appropriate for reducing acute post-surgical edema?

Answer: High-voltage pulsed current (HVPC)

HVPC has the strongest evidence for reducing acute edema and promoting tissue healing in the early post-surgical phase.

A basketball player reports numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers after elbow trauma. Which nerve is MOST likely involved?

Answer: Ulnar nerve

The ulnar nerve supplies the ring and little fingers and is vulnerable to injury at the cubital tunnel following elbow trauma.

According to NATA guidelines, athletes suspected of having a concussion should be removed from play and not returned until evaluated by which professional?

Answer: A licensed healthcare professional trained in concussion management

NATA standards require evaluation by a licensed healthcare professional trained in concussion management before return to activity.