NATA-BOC Therapeutic Intervention and Modalities 2

Question 1

An athletic trainer is considering using therapeutic ultrasound on an athlete's chronic patellar tendinopathy. Which parameter settings would be most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

3 MHz, continuous mode, 1.0 W/cm2

Answer

The patellar tendon is a superficial structure, so 3 MHz (penetration depth 1-2 cm) is appropriate. Continuous mode provides thermal effects that benefit chronic conditions by increasing tissue extensibility and blood flow.

Question 2

Which contraindication would prevent an athletic trainer from applying electrical stimulation?

Accepted Answer

Active deep vein thrombosis in the treatment area

Answer

Active deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is an absolute contraindication for electrical stimulation. Muscle contractions induced by electrical stimulation could dislodge the thrombus, causing a potentially fatal pulmonary embolism.

Question 3

An athletic trainer applies ice massage to an athlete's medial epicondylitis. What is the typical duration for ice massage treatment?

Accepted Answer

5-10 minutes

Answer

Ice massage is typically applied for 5-10 minutes due to the direct contact of ice on skin. The intense cold application provides faster cooling than ice bags, and the CBAN sequence (Cold, Burning, Aching, Numbness) is usually completed within this timeframe.

Question 4

Which therapeutic modality uses alternating current at frequencies of 4,000 Hz to achieve deeper tissue penetration for pain management?

Accepted Answer

Interferential current (IFC)

Answer

Interferential current uses medium-frequency alternating currents (typically 4,000 Hz) from two channels that intersect in the tissue, producing a beat frequency at the treatment depth that achieves deeper penetration with less skin resistance.

Question 5

An athletic trainer decides to use iontophoresis to deliver dexamethasone to treat an athlete's plantar fasciitis. Which electrode carries the medication?

Accepted Answer

The cathode (negative electrode)

Answer

Dexamethasone is a negatively charged ion and is delivered under the cathode (negative electrode). In iontophoresis, like charges repel — the negative electrode repels the negatively charged drug into the tissue.

NATA-BOC Test Practice Test

NATA-BOC Test Practice Test

NATA-BOC Therapeutic Intervention and Modalities 2