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

During which phase of rehabilitation can gentle stretching typically begin after a dislocation?

1. Acute phase

2. Subacute phase

3. Chronic phase

4. End stage rehabilitation

The correct answer is: Chronic phase

Gentle stretching typically begins during the chronic phase of rehabilitation after a dislocation. This phase is characterized by the healing of tissues and a reduction in inflammation and pain. In the chronic phase, the focus shifts to restoring range of motion, flexibility, and strength in the affected area. During the acute phase, which occurs immediately after the injury, the priority is to protect the injured site, control bleeding, and reduce swelling. This phase typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation. In the subacute phase, which follows the acute phase, there may be some gentle range of motion activities introduced, but they are still quite limited as the tissues are still healing and may not tolerate more aggressive stretching yet. In the end stage of rehabilitation, the goal is often to return to full function, including higher-intensity activities and sports-specific training. While stretching may continue during this phase, it is not the initial phase where gentle stretching begins post-dislocation, as that is firmly rooted in the chronic phase of recovery. Thus, the chronic phase is the appropriate answer where gentle stretching becomes more feasible and beneficial in the rehabilitation process after a dislocation.