Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

What is the MOST appropriate warm-up activity for a patient who is six months status post anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction?

1. Passive stretching

2. Active exercise

3. Low-impact cardiovascular exercise

4. Static stretching

The correct answer is: Active exercise

The most appropriate warm-up activity for a patient who is six months post-anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is active exercise. At this stage in recovery, the individual should be focusing on regaining function and strength in the knee while also improving the overall range of motion and stability. Active exercise involves moving the muscles and joints through their full range of motion, which helps to increase blood flow, enhance neuromuscular control, and prepare the body for more intense activities. Engaging in active exercise can include activities such as straight leg raises, mini squats, or gentle lunges that promote both mobility and strength. This not only prepares the surrounding muscles for more demanding rehabilitation exercises but also helps to build confidence in the stability and function of the knee after surgery. While low-impact cardiovascular exercise could also be beneficial, it typically serves more as an aerobic conditioning tool rather than a targeted warm-up that promotes active engagement of the muscles specific to the knee joint—essential for optimal recovery and rehabilitation. Other options like passive stretching and static stretching are less suitable at this stage since they do not actively engage the muscles in the same way as active exercises do. Passive and static stretching primarily focus on increasing flexibility rather than promoting functional movement, which is crucial for a