Author: Anonymous

What is the primary purpose of using EMG biofeedbak in physical therapy practice?

A patient presents with chronic neck pain without any neurological symptoms or radiating pain. What mode of cervical traction is most appropriate for this clinical presentation?    

A patient with lower back pain is referred to physical therapy for interferential current therapy (IFC). Which of the following frequency ranges is MOST commonly used for pain control with this type of current?

Patient Name: James M. Occupation: Construction WorkerDiagnosis: Right Quadriceps Muscle Strain (Grade II)Injury Date: 5 days agoReferral: Outpatient PT for pain management and return to function Subjective:James reports a sudden “pulling” sensation in his right thigh while lifting a heavy tool bucket at work. He initially had difficulty walking and now complains of aching pain, stiffness, and weakness, especially when attempting to climb stairs or stand from sitting. His pain is 5/10 with activity and 2/10 at rest. He has no relevant past medical history. Objective: Inspection reveals moderate swelling and ecchymosis over the mid-thigh. AROM: Limited knee extension, with mild pain during active motion. PROM: Mild restriction with end-range discomfort. Strength: 3-/5 for right quadriceps (manual muscle test). Gait: Slight limp, avoids full stance phase on the right leg. No signs of infection or DVT. Skin is intact and sensation is normal. Plan:The physical therapist is considering adding electrical stimulation as part of the plan of care to manage pain and promote healing. Based on the timing of the injury and clinical presentation, which phase of tissue healing is MOST likely occurring?

What is the primary benefit of using ultrasound for treating scar tissue in the remodeling phase of healing?

A patientwith chronic low back pain is scheduled to receive IFC therapy. The physical therapist plans to use a quadripolar electrode placement, covering a large portion of the patients back. Where should the electrodes be placed for effective pain management?

When the nerve becomes gradually less responsive to stimulation, this is BEST described as:

A patient with a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is being considered for thermotherapy. What is the most appropriate course of action for the physical therapist?  

A  presents with acute low back pain following yard work. The patient reports sharp pain with forward flexion but no radicular symptoms.The physical therapist plans to use conventional TENS for pain relief during daily activities.

History: MC is a 23 year old patient who injured his left ankle during a soccer game at school earlier today. He was seen by the attending physician on the field and diagnosed with a grade II lateral ankle sprain. MC’s ankle was packed in ice, and he was sent to the locker room for immediate physical therapy follow-up. The physician instructed MC to be non-weightbearing, utilize bilateral axillary crutches, and to rest the injured ankle.  Systems Review: MC reports disappointment in his inability to finish the soccer season. Visual inspection shows MC is holding his ankle in a single position and expresses extreme hesitancy in allowing the therapist to move the joint. MC is otherwise healthy and denies a history of cancer, diabetes, or other significant health problems.  Tests and Measures: Gentle passive range of motion (PROM) reveals restrictions in all directions. Active range of motion (AROM) is minimal in all directions. The lateral talofibular joint is tender to touch, with discoloration indicating internal bleeding along the lateral surface and an inability to view the lateral malleolus because of swelling. The area is warm to the touch and slightly reddened.  Which of the following BEST describes the type of physiological process that is occuring in this patient’s ankle?