PAM Thermal Modalities 2

Question 1

What is the primary physiological effect of cryotherapy that makes it useful immediately after acute musculoskeletal injury?

Accepted Answer

Reduces vascular permeability and edema formation

Answer

Cryotherapy reduces vascular permeability and limits edema by causing vasoconstriction and slowing local metabolic activity after acute injury.

Question 2

During ice massage, the therapist should apply the ice in a slow, overlapping circular motion for approximately how long before analgesia is achieved?

Accepted Answer

5–10 minutes

Answer

Ice massage typically achieves analgesia within 5–10 minutes as evidenced by the patient reporting the four stages: cold, burning, aching, then numbness.

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the 'hunting response' associated with prolonged cold application?

Accepted Answer

Alternating cycles of vasoconstriction and vasodilation

Answer

The hunting response (Lewis reaction) involves alternating cycles of vasoconstriction and vasodilation to protect tissue from cold-induced injury during prolonged application.

Question 4

A patient with Raynaud's phenomenon is referred for ankle rehabilitation. Which thermal modality should the therapist AVOID?

Accepted Answer

Ice pack to the ankle

Answer

Cryotherapy is contraindicated in Raynaud's phenomenon because cold triggers pathological vasospasm that can lead to tissue ischemia.

Question 5

When using a vapocoolant spray (e.g., fluoromethane) for spray-and-stretch technique, the spray should be directed at what angle relative to the skin surface?

Accepted Answer

15–30 degrees

Answer

Vapocoolant spray is applied at a 15–30 degree angle to the skin surface to maximize coverage and allow even cooling along the muscle's length.

(PAM) Physical Agent Modalities Certification Practice Test

(PAM) Physical Agent Modalities Certification Practice Test

PAM Thermal Modalities 2