Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

What does the acronym TART stand for in osteopathic assessment?

1. Tenderness, Asymmetry, Rotation, Texture

2. Tissue texture change, Asymmetry, Restriction of motion, Tenderness

3. Tenderness, Asymmetry, Resonance, Tension

4. Texture, Asymmetry, Reaction, Tension

The correct answer is: Tissue texture change, Asymmetry, Restriction of motion, Tenderness

The acronym TART is a key component in osteopathic assessment, relating to the evaluation of somatic dysfunction. The correct choice outlines the specific criteria that practitioners use to assess and identify areas of dysfunction in the body: Tissue texture change, Asymmetry, Restriction of motion, and Tenderness. Each element plays a critical role in the thorough examination of the musculoskeletal system. Tissue texture change refers to alterations in the soft tissues, which may indicate underlying dysfunction or inflammation. Asymmetry involves assessing whether the body structures are symmetrical, which can reveal imbalances that could contribute to pain or conditions. Restriction of motion is evaluated to determine limitations in the range of movement, often related to musculoskeletal issues. Finally, tenderness is assessed by palpation, indicating areas of discomfort or sensitivity that could signal a dysfunction. The other options do not accurately represent the components of TART. Although they contain terms relevant to osteopathic examination, they do not reflect the correct sequence or terminology associated with the TART criteria used specifically in osteopathic evaluations. This adherence to TART ensures a standardized approach in diagnosing and treating somatic dysfunction, which is crucial for effective osteopathic practice.