National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

What clinical finding supports clearing a patient with a non-displaced proximal humerus fracture for active-assisted exercise?

1. Hematoma formation

2. Diminished pain

3. Callus formation

4. Remodeling

The correct answer is: Callus formation

Clearing a patient with a non-displaced proximal humerus fracture for active-assisted exercise is strongly supported by the presence of callus formation. Callus formation indicates that the body's healing process is actively developing bone at the fracture site, which is a critical sign that the fracture is stable and healing properly. In the context of a non-displaced fracture, which is less likely to undergo significant instability, the formation of callus illustrates that the bone is progressing towards healing. At this stage, the integrity of the fracture can allow for gentle movements without risking further injury. Engaging in active-assisted exercise can help restore range of motion and strength due to this healing process. While diminished pain could suggest improved comfort and might indicate some healing, it does not provide the same level of assurance about the structural healing of the bone as callus formation does. Hematoma formation is typically an early response after a fracture and does not confirm healing; it may actually precede callus formation. Remodeling occurs later in the healing process and indicates that the bone is returning to its original shape and strength, which would be too advanced for initiating active-assisted exercises at this point.