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Quizzes > Health & Medicine

Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Quiz

Quick physical therapy quiz with 15 MCQs. Instant results.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Nuno SeleiroUpdated Aug 24, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
Questions: 20
Learning OutcomesStudy Material
Colorful paper art depicting a Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy Practice Quiz theme.

This musculoskeletal physical therapy quiz helps you review anatomy, assessment, and treatment basics with 15 multiple-choice questions. Get quick feedback, then go deeper with focused practice using the shoulder anatomy quiz and the upper extremity muscles quiz, or refresh joint fundamentals in the joints quiz anatomy and physiology.

What is the primary function of the rotator cuff muscles during shoulder movement?
To elevate the scapula
To stabilize the glenohumeral joint
To extend the elbow
To protract the scapula
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Phalen test is most indicative of compression of which nerve?
Axillary nerve
Radial nerve
Ulnar nerve
Median nerve
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According to the Ottawa Ankle Rules, which finding indicates a need for ankle radiographs?
Inability to bear weight both immediately and in the emergency department
Swelling isolated to the anterior talofibular ligament
Pain with active plantarflexion only
Bruising over the dorsum of the foot without tenderness
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The McMurray test is primarily used to assess which knee structure?
Meniscus
MCL
ACL
Patellar tendon
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For therapeutic ultrasound aimed at heating tissue approximately 2 to 3 cm deep, which frequency is most appropriate?
1 MHz
0.7 MHz
3 MHz
5 MHz
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The Thomas test is primarily used to assess tightness of which muscle group?
Hip abductors
Hamstrings
Hip external rotators
Hip flexors (iliopsoas)
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The Ober test is most appropriate to assess tightness of which structure?
Rectus femoris
Adductor longus
Piriformis
Iliotibial band
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Which accessory glide most directly improves knee flexion range of motion?
Superior glide of the patella
Anterior glide of the tibia on the femur
Posterior glide of the tibia on the femur
Medial glide of the patella
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In Maitland joint mobilization, which description best matches Grade III?
Small-amplitude, high-velocity thrust at end range
Small-amplitude movement at the beginning of range
Large-amplitude movement into resistance near end range
Large-amplitude movement within the midrange
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Sensation to the dorsal web space between the first and second toes is primarily supplied by which dermatome?
S1
L5
L4
L3
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Weakness of which muscle is most consistent with a C7 radiculopathy?
First dorsal interosseous
Biceps brachii
Triceps brachii
Deltoid
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Which exercise approach has the strongest support for mid-portion Achilles tendinopathy rehabilitation?
Prolonged immobilization
Isometric loading only for 12 weeks
Progressive eccentric loading
Passive stretching only
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Which is a high-risk factor in the Canadian C-Spine Rule that mandates imaging?
Age 65 years or older
Delayed onset of neck pain
Simple rear-end motor vehicle collision
Ambulatory at any time post-injury
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Which clinical finding increases the Wells score for deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?
Bilateral ankle edema equal in size
Normal D-dimer test
Calf pain relieved by walking
Calf swelling greater than 3 cm compared to the asymptomatic side
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Which is an absolute contraindication to dry needling at a specific site?
Use of over-the-counter NSAIDs
History of mild needle phobia
Active infection at the needling site
Presence of well-controlled hypertension
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A positive external rotation lag sign of the shoulder most strongly suggests a tear of which structure(s)?
Subscapularis tendon only
Long head of the biceps tendon
Infraspinatus and supraspinatus tendons
Teres major tendon
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Which upper limb tension test position most effectively biases the median nerve?
Shoulder abduction and external rotation, forearm pronation, wrist flexion, elbow flexion
Shoulder extension and internal rotation, wrist flexion, forearm pronation, elbow extension
Shoulder adduction and internal rotation, forearm neutral, wrist neutral, elbow flexion
Shoulder abduction and external rotation, forearm supination, wrist and finger extension, elbow extension
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Which condition is a strong contraindication to high-velocity thrust manipulation of the thoracic spine?
Stable controlled hypertension
Mild postural kyphosis
Chronic non-specific thoracic pain
Severe osteoporosis
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An acute compartment syndrome can be safely managed with elevation and ice alone.
False
True
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A positive Babinski sign in an adult is a lower motor neuron sign.
False
True
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Learning Outcomes

  1. Analyse musculoskeletal system anatomy and pathologies
  2. Identify physical therapy techniques for joint mobility
  3. Apply standardized assessment protocols for impairments
  4. Evaluate treatment strategies for muscle and joint injuries
  5. Demonstrate correct exercise prescription for rehab
  6. Master differential diagnosis of common conditions

Cheat Sheet

  1. Understand MSK Anatomy - Dive into the world of bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage to build a rock-solid foundation for spotting system quirks. Think of it as assembling your own biomechanical puzzle!
  2. Explore Common Pathologies - Get up close with degenerative joint disease, spinal disorders, and fractures to sharpen your diagnostic superpowers. It's like training for a medical detective mission!
  3. Master the McKenzie Method - Discover exercises that emphasize spinal extension and self-care, boosting joint mobility and reducing pain. It's your DIY toolkit for happier backs!
  4. Standardized Assessment Protocols - Learn to measure range of motion and perform manual muscle testing with precision. These protocols are your trusted checklist for uncovering hidden impairments!
  5. Evaluate Treatment Strategies - Compare manual therapy techniques and therapeutic exercises to craft personalized recovery plans. You'll be the mixologist of muscles and joints!
  6. Prescribe Rehab Exercises - Fine-tune flexibility and strength training routines tailored to each patient's needs. It's like curating the ultimate workout playlist for healing!
  7. Perform Differential Diagnosis - Distinguish between similar presentations by understanding key clinical clues. Channel your inner Sherlock Holmes to solve each musculoskeletal mystery!
  8. Stay Evidence-Based - Keep up with the latest research to apply the most effective physical therapy techniques. Your treatments will always be backed by solid science!
  9. Prioritize Patient Education - Empower patients with clear guidance to boost adherence and prevent re-injury. Teaching is as vital as treating - be the coach and mentor they need!
  10. Leverage Therapeutic Exercises - Balance activity and rest to improve joint function and reduce pain. Think of it as fine-tuning your body's performance engine!
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