NPTE-PTA Musculoskeletal System

Question 1

Which muscle is the primary hip flexor tested during the NPTE-PTA examination?

Accepted Answer

Iliopsoas

Answer

The iliopsoas (iliacus + psoas major) is the primary hip flexor and is commonly tested on the NPTE-PTA.

Question 2

A PTA is assessing a patient with a grade 3 muscle strength. What does this indicate?

Accepted Answer

Full ROM against gravity, no resistance

Answer

Grade 3 on the manual muscle testing scale means the patient can complete full ROM against gravity but cannot tolerate added resistance.

Question 3

Which joint mobilization technique is used to improve flexion at the glenohumeral joint?

Accepted Answer

Inferior glide

Answer

An inferior glide of the humeral head is used to increase glenohumeral flexion and abduction.

Question 4

The Ober test is used to assess tightness of which structure?

Accepted Answer

Iliotibial band

Answer

The Ober test assesses tightness of the iliotibial (IT) band and tensor fasciae latae.

Question 5

A patient presents with lateral epicondylalgia. Which motion will most likely reproduce pain?

Accepted Answer

Wrist extension with elbow extended

Answer

Resisted wrist extension with the elbow extended stresses the extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon, reproducing lateral epicondyle pain.

NPTE-PTA Test Practice Test