Physical Therapy Licensure: Final
Certification Exam *Q&A* (100% Correct)
2025/2026 |VERIFIED|
What are the primary goals of physical therapy during the initial post-operative phase?
To promote early mobility, prevent complications, and reduce pain.
Explain the importance of evidence-based practice in physical therapy.
Evidence-based practice ensures that physical therapists use the best available research, clinical
expertise, and patient preferences to guide treatment decisions.
Describe the key components of a patient’s initial evaluation in physical therapy.
It includes patient history, physical assessment, functional limitations, and setting treatment
goals.
What are the key considerations when designing an exercise program for a patient with cardiovascular
disease?
The exercise program should focus on improving cardiovascular endurance, be individualized, and
monitor the patient’s heart rate and exertion levels.
How does the physical therapist assess range of motion (ROM)?
ROM is assessed by using a goniometer to measure joint angles, observing the movement quality,
and assessing any limitations in the joint's range.
What role does therapeutic ultrasound play in physical therapy?
Therapeutic ultrasound is used to promote tissue healing, reduce pain, and improve circulation
by delivering high-frequency sound waves to tissues.
What are the potential complications associated with immobilization after surgery?
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, Complications can include muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and
decreased circulation.
What are the contraindications for using heat therapy in physical therapy?
Heat therapy should be avoided in cases of acute inflammation, open wounds, impaired
sensation, or infections.
How do you determine the appropriate modality for pain management in a patient?
The modality choice is based on the patient’s condition, stage of healing, response to previous
treatments, and the therapist's clinical judgment.
Explain the concept of proprioception and its relevance in physical therapy.
Proprioception refers to the body’s ability to sense its position in space. It is essential in
rehabilitation to improve balance and prevent injury.
What are the key features of a therapeutic exercise program for a patient recovering from a knee
replacement surgery?
The program should focus on restoring knee range of motion, strengthening quadriceps and
hamstrings, and improving functional mobility.
What is the purpose of joint mobilization in physical therapy?
Joint mobilization aims to restore normal joint mechanics, reduce pain, and improve range of
motion by applying controlled movements to the joint.
What are some common postural abnormalities that physical therapists treat?
Common postural abnormalities include scoliosis, kyphosis, and lordosis, which can affect the
spine and posture.
How do you assess muscle strength in a patient?
Muscle strength is assessed using the Medical Research Council scale or a manual muscle test
(MMT) that evaluates strength on a scale from 0 to 5.
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, Describe how physical therapy can help a patient with chronic low back pain.
Physical therapy helps by improving posture, strengthening core muscles, increasing flexibility,
and teaching proper movement techniques.
What are the main principles of therapeutic exercise?
The main principles are specificity, progression, overload, and reversibility, ensuring exercises are
tailored to individual needs and goals.
What is the role of physical therapy in the management of osteoarthritis?
Physical therapy helps by reducing pain, improving joint mobility, strengthening surrounding
muscles, and increasing overall function.
What is the difference between active and passive range of motion exercises?
Active range of motion exercises are performed by the patient actively moving the joint, while
passive exercises involve the therapist moving the joint for the patient.
How does physical therapy help in the recovery of a stroke patient?
Physical therapy focuses on improving motor function, balance, strength, and mobility, with
specific interventions targeting the affected side of the body.
What are the signs of a potential deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in a patient recovering from surgery?
Signs of DVT include swelling, warmth, redness, and pain in the leg, particularly in the calf area.
Explain the importance of proper body mechanics in physical therapy practice.
Proper body mechanics prevent strain and injury to both the therapist and the patient during
treatment and exercises.
What are the indications for the use of ice therapy in physical therapy?
Ice therapy is used for acute injuries, inflammation, and pain reduction by constricting blood
vessels and reducing swelling.
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