National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

A patient experiences pain at the knee after prolonged sitting and when using stairs. Which intervention is MOST appropriate to combine with taping?

1. Closed chain quadriceps strengthening exercises

2. Plyometric exercises

3. Pulsed ultrasound to the lateral retinaculum

4. Patellar mobilization focusing on stretching medial structures

The correct answer is: Closed chain quadriceps strengthening exercises

The most appropriate intervention to combine with taping for a patient experiencing knee pain, particularly after prolonged sitting and during stair use, is closed-chain quadriceps strengthening exercises. This approach is effective because it targets the quadriceps muscle, which plays a crucial role in stabilizing the knee joint during activities that involve weight-bearing, such as stair climbing and returning to upright positions after sitting. Closed-chain exercises, such as squats or leg presses, can enhance muscular strength in a functional manner, allowing the patient to perform daily activities more effectively while reducing strain on the knee. Strengthening the quadriceps helps promote better patellar tracking, which is essential in minimizing pain and discomfort, particularly in individuals who may have underlying conditions like patellofemoral pain syndrome. This option is more beneficial in the long term compared to modalities or interventions that do not directly engage the quadriceps in a functional task or improve the biomechanics of the knee during activity. By integrating taping with strengthening, the intervention addresses both immediate pain relief and long-term muscle strength, making it a comprehensive approach to managing the patient's condition.