Which of the following would warrant immediate notification of a physician?

A patient presents with shoulder pain during overhead activity. The PTA performs a test in which the patient’s shoulder is passively flexed to 90 degrees and then internally rotated. The patient reports pain in the anterior shoulder.  Which special test is being performed?

You are beginning treatment with a patient who presents with scapular dyskinesis characterized by excessive anterior tilting and internal rotation of the scapula. Which of the following is the BEST initial intervention to address the underlying cause of their dysfunction?

A PTA is treating a patient who is 2 weeks post‑operative from a rTSR. Based on typical post‑surgical precautions for this procedure, which of the following shoulder motions is contraindicated during early rehabilitation?

A 21-year-old collegiate baseball pitcher presents to outpatient physical therapy with complaints of decreased throwing velocity and posterior shoulder tightness. Examination reveals a loss of 20° of internal rotation compared to the contralateral side, with total arc of motion preserved. Scapular assessment demonstrates mild anterior tilting and decreased upward rotation during elevation.  The supervising PT has identified GIRD and initiated a plan of care focused on restoring motion and improving shoulder mechanics.  Which of the following interventions would be MOST appropriate for the PTA to prioritize during the early phase of treatment?

A patient is positioned supine during early-phase rehabilitation following shoulder surgery. The PTA places a small towel roll under the distal humerus to slightly elevate the elbow away from the treatment table. During passive external rotation, the PTA ensures the humerus remains supported in this position.  What is the primary rationale for using the towel roll in this position?

A patient who underwent a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty is progressing into strengthening. The PTA is selecting exercises to improve functional elevation while minimizing joint stress. The patient demonstrates limited endurance and difficulty sustaining arm elevation.  Which of the following exercises is most appropriate?

A 68-year-old patient is 8 weeks post-operative following a reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. The patient demonstrates improved passive and active-assisted motion but continues to have difficulty generating active elevation against gravity. Observation reveals substitution patterns including trunk extension and shoulder hiking.  Which of the following best explains the biomechanical change following this procedure that affects the patient’s movement?

A 50-year-old patient presents with adhesive capsulitis and reports significant difficulty with dressing and reaching overhead. Examination reveals global restriction of shoulder motion with a firm end feel. The patient demonstrates guarding at end range and reports increased discomfort following previous therapy sessions that included aggressive stretching.  Which of the following is the most appropriate modification to the treatment plan?

A patient is performing active shoulder abduction. At 120 degrees of elevation, the PTA observes reduced scapular upward rotation and increased superior migration of the humeral head. The PTA determines that the patient is not demonstrating normal scapulohumeral rhythm.  Which of the following best explains the expected contribution of the glenohumeral joint and scapulothoracic joint at this range?