NPTE Study Tips for Mastering Open vs Closed Packed Positions to Boost Your Musculoskeletal Score

Oct 8, 2026 · based on the channel Typical PT

Video: NPTE Study Tips | Open vs Closed Packed Positions

Understanding open packed versus closed packed positions is essential for excelling in the musculoskeletal section of the NPTE. Open packed positions, also known as loose packed positions, refer to joint postures where the joint surfaces have the greatest available play and minimal congruency. Closed packed positions, in contrast, are where the joint surfaces fit most tightly with maximum ligament tension and stability.

What Is an Open Packed Position in Physical Therapy

An open packed position is when a joint is positioned so that the articular surfaces are least congruent, allowing the greatest amount of joint play or accessory motion. This position is where ligaments and capsule are most relaxed. For example, the open packed position of the knee is approximately 25 degrees of flexion.

Key characteristics:

1. Maximum joint space
2. Minimal ligament tension
3. Increased accessory movement
4. Commonly used for joint mobilizations and assessments

What Is a Closed Packed Position and Why It Matters

The closed packed position is where the joint surfaces have maximum contact area and congruency, creating optimal stability. Ligaments and joint capsule are taut, limiting accessory movement. An example is full knee extension.

Key characteristics:

1. Maximum joint congruency
2. Ligaments and capsule are tight
3. Minimal joint play
4. Joint is most stable

How to Differentiate Open Packed vs Closed Packed Positions for the NPTE

Distinguishing these positions quickly on NPTE questions can improve accuracy. Tips include:

• Identify if the question relates to joint stability (likely closed packed) or joint mobility (likely open packed).
• Recall common open and closed packed positions for major joints (knee, shoulder, hip).
• Recognize terminology like “maximum ligament tension” or “least joint play” as clues.

Common NPTE test-taking strategies:

1. Memorize open and closed packed positions for key joints.
2. Understand the clinical implications (e.g., joint mobilization uses open packed).
3. Analyze question stems for keywords indicating joint position.

Applying Open vs Closed Packed Knowledge to NPTE Musculoskeletal Questions

Many orthopedic questions involve joint positions. For example, when asked about the best position to perform joint mobilization or assess ligament integrity, the distinction between open and closed packed positions is crucial.

Practical applications:

• Use open packed positions for joint mobilizations to improve mobility.
• Recognize closed packed positions as those providing joint stability.
• Understand injury mechanisms that occur in closed packed positions due to ligament tension.

Common Joints and Their Open and Closed Packed Positions

Memorizing these is a high-yield NPTE study tip:

• Knee: Open packed = 25° flexion; Closed packed = full extension
• Shoulder: Open packed = 55° abduction, 30° horizontal adduction; Closed packed = full abduction and lateral rotation
• Hip: Open packed = 30° flexion, 30° abduction, slight lateral rotation; Closed packed = full extension, medial rotation, abduction
• Ankle: Open packed = 10° plantarflexion, midway inversion/eversion; Closed packed = maximum dorsiflexion

NPTE Study Tips Summary for Open vs Closed Packed Positions

1. Focus on understanding the biomechanical differences and clinical significance.
2. Practice with NPTE-style questions emphasizing joint position terminology.
3. Use resources like Typical PT’s free materials for additional review.
4. Create flashcards for each joint’s open and closed packed positions.

Conclusion

Mastering open and closed packed positions is a vital NPTE study tip for musculoskeletal success. Understanding these concepts improves your ability to answer orthopedic questions accurately and efficiently. The Typical PT channel provides targeted explanations and strategies that enhance your exam preparation for these core physiotherapy concepts.

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