Clinical Knowledge and Theory Flashcards
6 cards from real PCE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Clinical Knowledge and Theory flashcards as text
Which type of joint is characterized by a freely movable articulation?
Answer: Synovial joint
Synovial joints are characterized by a joint cavity filled with synovial fluid, which lubricates the joint and reduces friction between the articulating bones. This unique structure allows for a wide range of motion, making them freely movable articulations. Examples include the knee, hip, and shoulder joints, which are crucial for most bodily movements.
What is the primary function of the rotator cuff muscles?
Answer: Stabilization of the shoulder joint
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis) and their tendons that surround the shoulder joint. Their primary function is to provide dynamic stability to the highly mobile glenohumeral joint, keeping the head of the humerus centered within the shallow glenoid cavity. This allows for a wide range of arm movements while preventing dislocation.
Which type of muscle fiber is most resistant to fatigue?
Answer: Type I fibers
Type I muscle fibers, also known as slow-twitch oxidative fibers, are characterized by their high resistance to fatigue. They contain a large number of mitochondria and are rich in myoglobin, allowing for efficient aerobic metabolism and sustained contractions over long periods. These fibers are primarily recruited for endurance activities and postural control.
What is the role of proprioceptors in the human body?
Answer: Relay information about body position and movement
Proprioceptors are specialized sensory receptors located in muscles, tendons, and joints that detect changes in muscle length, tension, and joint angle. They provide continuous feedback to the central nervous system about the body's position in space, movement, and effort. This information is essential for coordination, balance, and motor control without conscious thought.
What is the primary purpose of the patella?
Answer: Increase leverage during knee extension
The patella, or kneecap, is a sesamoid bone embedded within the quadriceps tendon. Its primary function is to increase the mechanical advantage (leverage) of the quadriceps muscle by moving the tendon further away from the center of rotation of the knee joint. This allows the quadriceps to exert more force on the tibia, making knee extension more efficient and powerful.
Which nerve is primarily responsible for innervating the diaphragm?
Answer: Phrenic nerve
The phrenic nerve originates from the cervical spinal nerves (C3-C5) and is solely responsible for innervating the diaphragm, the primary muscle of respiration. It transmits motor commands that cause the diaphragm to contract, leading to inhalation, and sensory information from the diaphragm. Damage to the phrenic nerve can severely impair breathing.