Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

What type of end-feel is described as resulting from a yielding compression that halts movement?

1. Hard end feel

2. Soft end feel

3. Firm end feel

4. Empty end feel

The correct answer is: Soft end feel

The description of an end-feel resulting from a yielding compression that halts movement aligns with a soft end feel. This type of end-feel occurs when the tissues yield under pressure, creating a sensation of give. It often occurs in joints where soft tissue, such as muscle or fat, limits further movement. For example, when flexing the knee, the soft tissues around the joint, including muscles and ligaments, compress together, leading to a soft end feel as further movement is prevented by these yielding structures. In contrast, a hard end feel indicates a bony block preventing further motion, a firm end feel suggests tension from ligaments or capsule without significant yielding, and an empty end feel means that there is no resistance encountered—usually because pain halts the examination before reaching the anatomical limit.