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

If a client is side lying with their knee flexed to 60 degrees and pushing down on the leg, what is being tested?

1. Piriformis Muscle

2. Quadriceps Muscle

3. Hamstring Muscle

4. Gluteus Medius Muscle

The correct answer is: Piriformis Muscle

When a client is side lying with their knee flexed to 60 degrees and pushing down on the leg, this position primarily tests the piriformis muscle. The piriformis is a small muscle located deep in the gluteal region, and it plays a significant role in the lateral rotation of the hip. When the knee is flexed in this position, it stabilizes the pelvis and allows for the assessment of hip stability and rotation. Pushing down on the leg while in this position requires the client's piriformis to engage and resist the force. If the muscle is weak or if there are any restrictions or dysfunctions present, it could be observed through difficulty in maintaining proper positioning or a lack of stability in the hip. The other muscles listed would not be assessed effectively in this specific position. The quadriceps are primarily responsible for knee extension and would not be significantly engaged with the knee flexed to 60 degrees in such a test. The hamstrings, while also located at the back of the thigh, are not activated in this scenario as it involves hip stabilization more than knee flexion. Finally, the gluteus medius, which assists in stabilizing the pelvis and abducting the hip, would not be the primary focus