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

What is the primary indicator of a positive Axial Load Test?

1. Pain and/or crepitus

2. Swelling and discoloration

3. Lack of mobility

4. Reduced grip strength

The correct answer is: Pain and/or crepitus

The primary indicator of a positive Axial Load Test is pain and/or crepitus. This test is commonly used to assess the integrity of joint structures, especially in the context of potential pathology within the shoulder or other joints. The presence of pain indicates that there may be some level of inflammation or damage within the joint, while crepitus suggests that there could be structural irregularities such as tears or cartilage wear. Pain during the test typically signifies that there's an abnormal response to the compression of the joint, which is often a clear sign of an underlying issue that needs further evaluation. Crepitus adds an additional layer of information, indicating that there might be roughness or unevenness within the joint surfaces. The other options do not specifically relate to the Axial Load Test's primary intent. Swelling and discoloration may indicate general trauma or inflammation but are not definitive indicators of joint integrity. Lack of mobility can suggest joint issues but is not as immediately indicative as pain or crepitus during the test. Similarly, reduced grip strength pertains more to issues affecting the hand and forearm rather than the axial load dynamics of a joint test. Thus, the combination of pain and crepitus makes the interpretation of the Axial Load Test sensitive for