National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

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When assessing knee ROM, which combination indicates a need for caution in determining the validity of relaxation?

Observation of ACL integrity
Involvement of adjacent muscle groups
Independent fatigue of the opposite leg
Use of prior knee surgery as a measure

The correct answer is: Observation of ACL integrity

When assessing knee range of motion (ROM), observing ACL integrity is crucial because the anterior cruciate ligament plays a significant role in stabilizing the knee joint during movement. If the ACL is compromised or injured, there may be an increased risk of knee instability and improper movement patterns. This can lead to unreliable ROM measurements, as the fear of pain or instability may cause the individual to tense up, thus affecting their ability to relax during the assessment. A lack of relaxation can significantly impact the accuracy of ROM readings, making it essential to consider ACL integrity when evaluating knee flexion and extension. Moreover, observing ACL integrity may highlight underlying issues that could result in compensatory movements or altered biomechanics, further complicating the assessment of relaxation and the overall validity of the knee ROM measurement. Therefore, it’s important to conduct a thorough evaluation of the ACL and be cautious in interpreting the ROM results in these circumstances.