NPTE-PT Test Test Musculoskeletal System Interventions 1

Question 1

A patient with adhesive capsulitis presents with a capsular pattern of restriction at the shoulder. Which mobilization technique is MOST appropriate to address external rotation limitation?

Accepted Answer

Anterior glide of the humeral head

Answer

An anterior glide of the humeral head is used to increase external rotation at the glenohumeral joint, as the convex humeral head must glide anteriorly on the concave glenoid when the arm externally rotates (convex-on-concave rule).

Question 2

A patient 10 days post-total knee arthroplasty lacks full knee extension and has a 15-degree extension lag. Which intervention is MOST appropriate to address this impairment?

Accepted Answer

Prolonged low-load stretch into extension using a prone hang

Answer

A prolonged low-load stretch (e.g., prone hang) applies a sustained force that promotes viscoelastic creep and plastic deformation of the capsule and soft tissue, which is most effective for improving a fixed extension deficit after TKA.

Question 3

A physical therapist is treating a patient with plantar fasciitis. Which intervention has the STRONGEST evidence for reducing pain in the short term?

Accepted Answer

Night splinting combined with stretching of the plantar fascia and gastrocnemius

Answer

Night splinting combined with plantar fascia and Achilles/gastrocnemius stretching is strongly supported by evidence for reducing morning pain by maintaining the foot in a dorsiflexed position and lengthening the fascia overnight.

Question 4

A patient presents with rotator cuff tendinopathy confirmed by MRI. Strengthening exercises are prescribed. Which approach is BEST supported by current evidence?

Accepted Answer

Isometric contractions performed at 70% MVC to reduce pain immediately, followed by isotonic strengthening

Answer

Isometric contractions at high intensity (≥70% MVC) have strong evidence for immediate pain reduction in tendinopathy via cortical pain inhibition, and progressive isotonic loading follows to drive tendon adaptation. HSR is also effective but the combination described reflects best current evidence.

Question 5

A patient 8 weeks post-distal radius fracture ORIF has limited forearm supination to 30°. The radius head is the primary site of restriction. Which mobilization is MOST appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Anterior glide of the radial head at the proximal radioulnar joint

Answer

Supination of the forearm requires an anterior (ventral) glide of the radial head at the proximal radioulnar joint. Mobilizing into anterior glide directly addresses the capsular restriction limiting this motion.

NPTE-PT Test Practice Test

NPTE-PT Test Practice Test

NPTE-PT Test Test Musculoskeletal System Interventions 1