Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC) Practice Test

Why would the athletic trainer likely want to examine for tightness or weakness of muscles during evaluation?

1. To enhance athletic performance

2. To determine surgical need

3. To develop a rehabilitation plan

4. To diagnose fractures

The correct answer is: To develop a rehabilitation plan

During an evaluation, examining for tightness or weakness of muscles is crucial in developing a rehabilitation plan. Understanding the specific areas where tightness or weakness exists helps the athletic trainer tailor interventions that address the athlete's individual needs. It allows for the identification of muscle imbalances or deficiencies that could contribute to injuries or impact performance. By assessing these factors, the athletic trainer can create a targeted rehabilitation program that includes stretching, strengthening, and functional exercises to restore balance and improve the athlete's overall functionality and performance. While enhancing athletic performance could be a secondary benefit of the evaluation, the primary goal in this context is to establish a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation. Determining surgical need and diagnosing fractures are specific medical responsibilities that typically require imaging and medical evaluation, rather than being the focus of a muscle tightness or weakness assessment conducted by an athletic trainer. Thus, developing a rehabilitation plan is the most relevant reason for examining muscle tightness or weakness.