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

What remedial exercise should be prescribed to maintain joint mobility in a patient with an acute second-degree ankle sprain?

1. Pain-free passive range of motion (PROM) of the ankle

2. Active range of motion exercises

3. Strengthening exercises

4. Ice massage of the ankle area

The correct answer is: Pain-free passive range of motion (PROM) of the ankle

In the case of an acute second-degree ankle sprain, maintaining joint mobility is essential for a healthy recovery while avoiding further injury. Pain-free passive range of motion (PROM) exercises are beneficial in this context as they help maintain joint flexibility without placing undue stress on the injured area. PROM involves the therapist moving the patient’s ankle through its available range without any active participation from the patient. This ensures that the surrounding muscles are not strained while still promoting circulation and preventing stiffness in the joint. By keeping the ankle joint mobile during the acute phase of healing, PROM exercises can facilitate recovery and lay a foundation for further rehabilitation once the acute symptoms have subsided. As the injury is acute, active range of motion exercises might pose a risk of pain or exacerbate the injury. Strengthening exercises are typically introduced later in the healing process, once the sprain has improved and the joint can tolerate additional stress. Ice massage, while useful for managing pain and swelling, does not assist in maintaining mobility directly but rather serves as a modality for symptom relief.