Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy Flashcards
6 cards from real NPTE-PTA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy flashcards as text
A patient with a hip fracture has been placed on 'hip precautions.' Which motion should be avoided following a posterior approach total hip replacement?
Answer: Hip flexion beyond 90°
After a posterior approach total hip replacement, hip flexion beyond 90° combined with internal rotation and adduction risks posterior dislocation.
Which muscle is the primary stabilizer of the glenohumeral joint inferiorly?
Answer: Supraspinatus
The supraspinatus is the primary stabilizer against inferior subluxation of the glenohumeral joint due to its superior cuff position and tension.
What is the close-packed position of the knee joint?
Answer: Full extension with tibial external rotation
The close-packed (maximally congruent) position of the knee is full extension with slight external tibial rotation, creating the screw-home mechanism.
Which nerve is compressed in carpal tunnel syndrome?
Answer: Median nerve
Carpal tunnel syndrome results from compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel at the wrist.
A PTA applies moist heat to reduce muscle spasm. What is the primary physiological effect?
Answer: Increased collagen extensibility and local vasodilation
Superficial heat application causes local vasodilation and increases collagen extensibility, which reduces muscle spasm and promotes relaxation.
The Thomas test is used to assess tightness of which muscle group?
Answer: Hip flexors
The Thomas test assesses hip flexor tightness, particularly the iliopsoas and rectus femoris, by observing if the opposite leg rises off the table when the hip is brought to full flexion.