National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

Which peripheral joint mobilization technique is MOST appropriate for a patient with limited ulnar deviation range of motion due to capsular tightness?

1. Radial glide of the proximal carpal row

2. Ulnar glide of the proximal carpal row

3. Dorsal glide of the proximal carpal row

4. Volar glide of the proximal carpal row

The correct answer is: Radial glide of the proximal carpal row

The most appropriate technique for improving ulnar deviation range of motion when a patient presents with capsular tightness is the radial glide of the proximal carpal row. When the proximal carpal row experiences tightness or restriction in the joint capsule, mobilizing it radially can help to create relative space in the joint and promote movement in the opposite direction—specifically, ulnar deviation. By applying a radial glide, the proximal carpal row is effectively shifted laterally, which can facilitate the ability of the distal carpal row and the wrist to move into ulnar deviation. This is crucial since ulnar deviation occurs when the wrist is moved towards the ulna, and any restrictions in the capsule can limit this range. In contrast, other techniques like a ulnar glide would likely exacerbate the limitation because it would not relieve the tightness that is preventing adequate mobility in ulnar deviation. Dorsal and volar glides, while useful for addressing wrist movement in flexion or extension, do not directly address the restriction that is specifically affecting ulnar deviation as effectively as a radial glide would. Thus, the choice of a radial glide aligns best with the goal of restoring ulnar deviation in this context