College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

After a skiing injury, which assessment should be prioritized for a patient with a swollen knee?

1. Standing squat

2. Manual muscle test

3. Postural assessment

4. Tibiofemoral joint play

The correct answer is: Tibiofemoral joint play

Prioritizing the assessment of tibiofemoral joint play for a patient with a swollen knee following a skiing injury is essential because it directly evaluates the integrity and function of the knee joint itself. This assessment focuses on the mobility and stability of the tibiofemoral joint, which is crucial in determining any potential damage to the ligaments or cartilage, as well as identifying any restrictions in movement that may arise due to swelling or trauma. When a knee is swollen, it often indicates inflammation or fluid accumulation, which can alter the normal mechanics and function of the joint. Assessing joint play allows a clinician to gather important information about the joint's physiological state, such as the presence of any effusion, tenderness, or instability. Such findings can guide the treatment plan, as addressing joint mobility issues is vital for recovery and rehabilitation. Other assessments like a standing squat, manual muscle tests, or postural assessments may be valuable later on in the rehabilitation process but are not immediately pertinent when dealing with acute swelling. They do not specifically focus on the acute problem within the joint, which must be prioritized to ensure effective management and care.