MBLEx Test Client Assessment and Treatment Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: During a postural assessment from a lateral view, a therapist observes that a client has a significant anterior pelvic tilt. Which of the following is a likely palpatory finding associated with this observation?
- Hypertonic iliopsoas and erector spinae (Correct answer)
- Hypertonic rectus abdominis and hamstrings
- Hypertonic gluteus maximus and tibialis anterior
- Hypertonic pectoralis major and scalenes
Correct answer: Hypertonic iliopsoas and erector spinae
An anterior pelvic tilt is often associated with a lower-crossed syndrome pattern. In this pattern, the hip flexors (iliopsoas) and lumbar extensors (erector spinae) are typically tight and hypertonic, while the abdominals (rectus abdominis) and hip extensors (gluteus maximus and hamstrings) are weakened and lengthened.
Question 2: A client's verbal intake describes a sharp, shooting pain that travels from their low back down the posterior aspect of their leg. This description is most characteristic of which condition?
- Piriformis syndrome
- Trochanteric bursitis
- Iliotibial band syndrome
- Sciatica (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Sciatica
Sciatica is characterized by pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from the lower back through the hips and buttocks and down each leg. The description of sharp, shooting pain following this pathway is a classic sign of sciatic nerve irritation.
Question 3: In which section of a SOAP note would a massage therapist document their visual observations of a client's gait and posture?
- Subjective
- Assessment
- Objective (Correct answer)
- Plan
Correct answer: Objective
The Objective section of a SOAP note is for the therapist's own observations and clinical findings. This includes measurable and observable data such as postural analysis, gait assessment, range of motion tests, and palpation findings.
Question 4: A therapist is performing an assessment for thoracic outlet syndrome. They have the client seated, and they passively abduct and externally rotate the client's shoulder while monitoring the radial pulse. The pulse diminishes. Which special test has the therapist most likely performed?
- Adson's Test
- Speed's Test
- Wright's Hyperabduction Test (Correct answer)
- Spurling's Test
Correct answer: Wright's Hyperabduction Test
Wright's Hyperabduction Test is used to assess for thoracic outlet syndrome, specifically compression in the costoclavicular space. The test involves hyperabducting and externally rotating the arm while the therapist monitors the client's radial pulse for any changes, which would indicate compression of the subclavian artery.
Question 5: A client, a dedicated runner, reports pain on the lateral side of their knee that is especially aggravated when running downhill. Palpation reveals tenderness over the lateral femoral epicondyle. Which of the following is the most likely treatment goal?
- To increase the strength of the quadriceps
- To reduce hypertonicity in the tensor fasciae latae and gluteus maximus (Correct answer)
- To release trigger points in the medial gastrocnemius
- To improve the flexibility of the adductor group
Correct answer: To reduce hypertonicity in the tensor fasciae latae and gluteus maximus
The client's symptoms are classic for Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome. The IT band is a thick band of fascia that runs along the outside of the thigh, from the hip to the knee. It can become inflamed due to friction with the lateral femoral epicondyle. The tensor fasciae latae (TFL) and gluteus maximus muscles insert into the IT band, and tightness in these muscles can increase tension and friction. Therefore, a primary treatment goal would be to reduce this tension.
Question 6: Which of the following represents an appropriate use of active resistive range of motion (AROM) during a client assessment?
- To determine the quality of the joint's end-feel
- To assess the client's willingness to move a joint
- To evaluate the strength of a specific muscle group (Correct answer)
- To gently move a joint through its full range without client participation
Correct answer: To evaluate the strength of a specific muscle group
Active resistive range of motion involves the client attempting to move a joint against a resistance applied by the therapist. This type of assessment is specifically used to gauge the strength and integrity of the muscles performing the action.
During a postural assessment from a lateral view, a therapist observes that a client has a significant anterior pelvic tilt.
Which of the following is a likely palpatory finding associated with this observation?