National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

To test the lower trapezius functioning during shoulder flexion, the physical therapist resists which movement?

1. Scapular depression, adduction, and upward rotation

2. Scapular depression, abduction, and downward rotation

3. Scapular elevation, abduction, and upward rotation

4. Scapular elevation, adduction, and downward rotation

The correct answer is: Scapular depression, adduction, and upward rotation

To test the functioning of the lower trapezius during shoulder flexion, the physical therapist resists movements that involve scapular depression, adduction, and upward rotation. The lower trapezius muscle is primarily responsible for stabilizing and moving the scapula, and its strength is crucial during shoulder flexion activities. During shoulder flexion, the arm moves upward while the scapula must stabilize and allow for optimal movement. The lower trapezius aids in the downward rotation of the scapula while also assisting in maintaining its position (depression and adduction). When resisting these specific movements, the therapist is effectively assessing the strength and coordination of the lower trapezius in its role in scapular mechanics during shoulder flexion. The other options do not accurately reflect the appropriate movements to resist during this test. For instance, movements involving scapular elevation or abduction would not emphasize the role of the lower trapezius in shoulder flexion testing, as these actions primarily engage other muscles responsible for elevating or moving the scapula differently. Thus, resisting scapular depression, adduction, and upward rotation adequately tests the functionality of the lower trapezius in shoulder flexion scenarios.