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

Which assessment finding would indicate potential weakness in the abdominal muscles?

1. Flattened lumbar spine

2. Increased thoracic curvature

3. Inability to perform a straight leg raise

4. Hyperextension in the neck

The correct answer is: Inability to perform a straight leg raise

The inability to perform a straight leg raise is a key indicator of potential weakness in the abdominal muscles. This exercise specifically engages the rectus abdominis and other core muscles. When an individual cannot lift their legs while keeping their back flat on the surface, it suggests that those core muscles may not be providing adequate strength or stability. The abdominal muscles play a crucial role in maintaining posture and supporting movements that require trunk stabilization. Therefore, this assessment finding offers insight into the condition of the abdominal musculature and potential dysfunction. In contrast, while other options may reflect postural or muscular issues, they do not directly assess abdominal strength. Flattened lumbar spine, for example, might indicate changes in spinal alignment due to various muscular or skeletal factors, but it does not specifically isolate the weakness of the abdominal muscles. Similarly, increased thoracic curvature and hyperextension in the neck relate to different muscular imbalances and spinal alignment issues rather than the specific function and strength of the abdominal region. Thus, the straight leg raise serves as a targeted assessment for abdominal muscle strength.