End Feels. NPTE Study Guide: Master the NPTE

Normal End Feels

Sensations felt when reaching the end of a joint's range of motion during passive movement.

Hard End Feel

Bone or cartilage contact, like in elbow extension.

Soft End Feel

Soft tissue approximation, such as in elbow flexion.

Firm End Feel

Capsular and ligamentous stretching, for instance, in shoulder flexion.

Pathological/Abnormal End Feels

Abnormal sensations experienced at the end of a joint's range of motion.

Hard End Feels

Heterotropic ossification or other bony obstruction (in abnormal location)

Boggy End Feel

Presence of edema or joint swelling.

Springy End Feel

Meniscal displacement causing a rebound sensation.

Rubbery End Feel

Result of muscle spasm.

Firm with Decreased Elasticity End Feel

Soft tissue fibrosis leading to reduced elasticity.

Empty End Feel

Muscle guarding or pain

Hypermobile End Feel

Excessive joint motion.

Hypomobile End Feel

Restricted or limited joint motion.