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

Where does the plumb line typically sit in a lateral view of the body?

1. Through the midline of the abdomen

2. Through the greater acoustic meatus, through acromion, through greater trochanter, slightly posterior

3. Through the greater acoustic meatus, through acromion, through greater trochanter, slightly anterior to the midline of the knee

4. Across the forehead, through the nose, down the chin

The correct answer is: Through the greater acoustic meatus, through acromion, through greater trochanter, slightly anterior to the midline of the knee

The correct answer indicates the typical position of the plumb line in a lateral view of the body, aligning with anatomical landmarks that demonstrate proper posture and alignment. When observing the body from the side, the plumb line generally runs through the greater acoustic meatus (the ear), through the acromion (the bony prominence of the shoulder), through the greater trochanter (the major bony prominence of the femur), and it should be noted that it has a slight anterior positioning relative to the midline of the knee. This alignment showcases a well-balanced posture where the body's weight and gravitational pull are effectively aligned, thereby supporting the joints and minimizing strain. In contrast, positioning the plumb line through the midline of the abdomen would not accurately represent alignment related to the head or lower extremities. Similarly, an option that places the line through the greater acoustic meatus, acromion, and greater trochanter but suggests an anterior position relative to the knee does not reflect the appropriate lateral alignment. Lastly, a line crossing the forehead, nose, and chin represents a frontal view rather than a lateral assessment, failing to incorporate the necessary skeletal landmarks pertinent to the question regarding lateral view alignment.