Equipment and Therapeutic Modalities Flashcards

A physical therapist is using neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to facilitate quadriceps re-education after ACL reconstruction. Which parameter is MOST important for minimizing patient discomfort while achieving muscle contraction?

Answer: High pulse duration (300–500 µs) with low frequency

Longer pulse durations effectively recruit motor neurons at lower amplitudes, improving comfort while achieving the desired contraction.

Which assistive device requires the GREATEST amount of upper extremity strength and coordination to use safely?

Answer: Axillary crutches

Axillary crutches require significant upper extremity strength, trunk stability, and coordination for safe swing-through gait patterns.

A patient with a spinal cord injury at T6 is being fitted for a wheelchair. Which feature is MOST critical to prevent autonomic dysreflexia?

Answer: Solid seat insert for pressure distribution

Proper pressure distribution with a solid seat insert prevents pressure injuries, which are a common trigger for autonomic dysreflexia in high thoracic SCI.

When is whirlpool hydrotherapy MOST appropriate?

Answer: Management of wounds with necrotic tissue requiring debridement

Whirlpool's agitation aids mechanical debridement of necrotic tissue, making it appropriate for wounds requiring wound bed preparation.

A therapist applies pulsed ultrasound (20% duty cycle) to a subacute injury. What is the PRIMARY physiological effect intended?

Answer: Mechanical (non-thermal) effects to promote tissue healing

Low duty cycle pulsed ultrasound minimizes heat accumulation and produces non-thermal mechanical effects like acoustic streaming that promote healing.

Which wheelchair propulsion pattern is associated with the LOWEST risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome in manual wheelchair users?

Answer: Semi-circular pattern (hand returns below the pushrim)

The semi-circular (SCIM) propulsion pattern minimizes repetitive wrist extension and reduces cumulative stress on the carpal tunnel.

A patient ambulating with a standard cane reports the cane is causing shoulder elevation. The MOST likely cause is:

Answer: Cane is too long

A cane that is too long forces the shoulder to elevate to keep the elbow at the appropriate 20–30° flexion angle during use.