Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

If a patient experiences significant pain during passive shoulder flexion at 80 degrees, how should the end-feel be classified?

1. Soft end feel

2. Hard or bony end feel

3. Firm end feel

4. Empty end feel

The correct answer is: Empty end feel

The classification of end-feel during passive range of motion assessments helps therapists determine the nature of a patient's symptoms and the condition of the joint. In this scenario, significant pain experienced during passive shoulder flexion at 80 degrees suggests that there is a significant restriction or protective response from the patient. An empty end-feel is characterized by pain preventing further movement, indicating that the patient experiences discomfort before reaching the point where normal resistance would be felt. This often signifies underlying issues such as inflammation, severe joint pathology, or soft tissue injury that warrants concern. It highlights that the joint cannot be fully assessed because the pain is a limiting factor. In contrast, a soft, hard, or firm end-feel would imply that the joint has reached a normal anatomical or physiological limit, where changes in tissue resistance occur without significant pain. Therefore, the identification of an empty end-feel in this case accurately reflects the patient's reaction and suggests that further evaluation and intervention may be necessary to address the cause of pain.