NPTE-PT Equipment and Therapeutic Modalities 2

Question 1

A patient with chronic low back pain is treated with ultrasound. Which parameter setting produces the greatest depth of penetration?

Accepted Answer

1 MHz at 100% duty cycle

Answer

1 MHz ultrasound penetrates deeper (up to 5 cm) than 3 MHz because lower frequency waves attenuate less in tissue.

Question 2

Which type of traction is MOST appropriate for a patient with acute cervical radiculopathy who cannot tolerate positional changes?

Accepted Answer

Manual traction in supine

Answer

Manual traction in supine allows the therapist to control force precisely and immediately release if symptoms worsen, making it safest for acute conditions.

Question 3

A physical therapist is setting up a TENS unit for postoperative pain. Which mode delivers a continuous high-frequency, low-intensity current most effective for immediate pain relief?

Accepted Answer

Conventional (high-frequency) TENS

Answer

Conventional TENS (80–150 Hz, low intensity) activates gate control mechanisms for rapid, short-duration analgesia.

Question 4

When using iontophoresis to deliver dexamethasone for inflammation, which electrode placement is correct?

Accepted Answer

Dexamethasone under the negative electrode

Answer

Dexamethasone is negatively charged, so it must be placed under the negative (cathode) electrode for proper ion delivery.

Question 5

A patient with Raynaud's phenomenon is being considered for cryotherapy. What is the PRIMARY contraindication?

Accepted Answer

Cold hypersensitivity / vasospastic disorder

Answer

Raynaud's phenomenon involves pathological vasospasm triggered by cold, making cryotherapy directly contraindicated.

NPTE-PT Test Practice Test

NPTE-PT Test Practice Test

NPTE-PT Equipment and Therapeutic Modalities 2