Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

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Prepare for the COMLEX-USA with quizzes featuring flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Gear up for your osteopathic medicine exam!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

Which test evaluates the Achilles tendon?

Thompson test
Ober's test
Neer's test
Hawkin's test

The correct answer is: Thompson test

The Achilles tendon is primarily evaluated using the Thompson test. This test specifically assesses the integrity of the Achilles tendon by observing the plantarflexion of the foot in response to squeezing the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus). When the Achilles tendon is intact, squeezing the calf results in the foot moving downward (plantarflexion); if the tendon is ruptured, there will be little to no movement in the foot, indicating a positive Thompson test. The other tests listed assess different structures or conditions. Ober's test is utilized to evaluate tightness in the iliotibial band. Neer's test is for shoulder impingement, assessing the subacromial space. Hawkins' test also evaluates the shoulder, specifically looking for impingement of the rotator cuff. Thus, these tests are not relevant for assessing the Achilles tendon.