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

Which active range of motion exercise will improve mobility of the distal radioulnar joint?

1. Wrist flexion and extension

2. Elbow flexion and extension

3. Wrist ulnar and radial deviation

4. Forearm pronation and supination

The correct answer is: Forearm pronation and supination

The chosen answer, forearm pronation and supination, is indeed the correct one for improving mobility of the distal radioulnar joint. The distal radioulnar joint, located at the wrist, allows for the rotation of the forearm. Pronation refers to the inward rotation of the forearm, while supination is the outward rotation. These movements specifically target the interplay between the radius and ulna as they twist around each other, which is crucial for functional and anatomical movements in the wrist and arm. In contrast, wrist flexion and extension, while they involve the wrist joint, do not specifically impact the rotational capabilities of the distal radioulnar joint. Similarly, elbow flexion and extension pertain more to movements at the elbow joint and do not directly enhance forearm mobility. Lastly, wrist ulnar and radial deviation involve side-to-side movement of the wrist, which again does not engage the rotation of the forearm or the distal radioulnar joint's capacity for pronation and supination. Therefore, focusing on forearm pronation and supination is essential for enhancing the function and mobility of the distal radioulnar joint.