Question 1

What are the origin and insertion of the biceps brachii?

Accepted Answer

The biceps brachii has two heads: the short head originates from the coracoid process of the scapula, and the long head from the supraglenoid tubercle. Both insert on the radial tuberosity of the radius. Actions include elbow flexion and supination.

Question 2

Which muscle is the primary hip flexor?

Accepted Answer

The iliopsoas — composed of the iliacus and psoas major — is the primary hip flexor. It originates from the lumbar vertebrae and iliac fossa and inserts on the lesser trochanter of the femur. It is commonly tight in people who sit for extended periods.

Question 3

What term describes a muscle that assists the agonist (prime mover) in performing a movement?

Accepted Answer

A synergist assists the agonist (prime mover) in producing a movement. The antagonist opposes the agonist. A fixator stabilizes the proximal bone while the distal part moves. Neutralizers cancel out unwanted actions of other muscles.

Question 4

What is the action of the trapezius muscle's upper fibers?

Accepted Answer

The upper fibers of the trapezius elevate and upwardly rotate the scapula and extend the cervical spine. The middle fibers retract the scapula. The lower fibers depress the scapula. The trapezius is frequently a site of tension and trigger points.

Question 5

Which rotator cuff muscle is most commonly injured?

Accepted Answer

The supraspinatus is the most commonly injured rotator cuff muscle. It abducts the shoulder (especially the first 15°) and is vulnerable to impingement in the subacromial space during overhead movements. Tears often require surgical repair.

Question 6

When the elbow is extended against resistance (e.g., tricep pushdown), the triceps brachii is acting as the:

Accepted Answer

The agonist (prime mover) is the muscle primarily responsible for producing the desired movement. During elbow extension, the triceps brachii is the agonist. The biceps brachii, which would flex the elbow, is the antagonist — it relaxes to allow extension.

Question 7

What type of joint is the hip joint, and what movements does it allow?

Accepted Answer

The hip joint is a ball-and-socket (spheroidal) joint allowing multi-axial movement: flexion/extension, abduction/adduction, medial/lateral rotation, and the combined circumduction. Its deep socket provides stability but limits range of motion compared to the shoulder.

Question 8

Dorsiflexion of the foot brings the top of the foot toward the shin. Which muscles are the primary dorsiflexors?

Accepted Answer

The tibialis anterior is the primary dorsiflexor of the foot and ankle, assisted by the extensor digitorum longus and extensor hallucis longus. The gastrocnemius and soleus perform plantarflexion (pointing the foot down).

Question 9

During a seated row exercise, the rhomboids perform which action?

Accepted Answer

The rhomboids major and minor retract (adduct) the scapula — pulling it toward the spine. They also downwardly rotate the scapula. Massage therapists address the rhomboids frequently in clients with forward head posture or rounded shoulders.

Question 10

A client has limited shoulder abduction past 90° due to rotator cuff tension. Which of the four rotator cuff muscles is most likely involved in restriction during abduction?

Accepted Answer

The supraspinatus initiates shoulder abduction (0–15°) and assists the deltoid through the full range. Tightness or injury of the supraspinatus is the most common cause of shoulder impingement and restricted abduction. Massage work on the supraspinatus requires careful positioning.

Kinesiology and Muscles Practice Questions

More MBLEx Massage Therapy Exam Topics