National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

What is an appropriate activity for strengthening the shoulder during early rehabilitation?

1. Pendulum swings

2. Theraband exercises

3. Weight lifting

4. Cross-body stretches

The correct answer is: Pendulum swings

Pendulum swings are an appropriate activity for strengthening the shoulder during early rehabilitation because they promote gentle movement and allow for passive range of motion without placing undue stress on the joint. This exercise helps to activate the shoulder muscles and improve circulation while minimizing the risk of further injury. The motion of pendulum swings facilitates gentle stretching and allows the muscles to engage in a low-impact manner, making them particularly suitable for patients in the initial stages of recovery from shoulder surgery or injury. In the early stages of rehabilitation, the focus is on restoring motion and preventing stiffness rather than on building strength through resistance training. Other options, such as Theraband exercises, may involve a higher degree of resistance and muscle recruitment that isn't advisable until the shoulder has gained sufficient stability and range of motion. Weight lifting is generally too advanced for early rehabilitation phases, as it places significant load on the shoulder. Cross-body stretches, while beneficial for flexibility, don't effectively promote muscular strengthening and could potentially irritate a sensitive shoulder during the early rehab phase. Thus, pendulum swings remain the best choice for a strengthening activity suitable for early rehabilitation of the shoulder.