# NPTE Study Tips Which Joint Positions Are Better to Know for Open vs Closed Packed Positions and Why

Learn key NPTE study tips to master open and closed packed joint positions, essential for musculoskeletal exam success.

Source: https://227779.shop/npte-study-tips-which/ · based on the channel [Typical PT](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeu0qoaAiH89oarBdx4nR8A) · Video: [NPTE Study Tips | Open vs Closed Packed Positions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-d_qkd1YozY) · 2026-10-08

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## Key takeaways

- Open packed position allows maximum joint play and laxity.
- Closed packed position features maximal joint congruency and ligament tension.
- Recognizing these positions is crucial for NPTE musculoskeletal questions.
- Open packed position is also called loose packed position.
- Closed packed position provides maximum joint stability.

## Understanding Open Packed Position in NPTE Musculoskeletal Exam
Open packed position, also known as loose packed position, is when a joint is at its least congruent alignment, allowing the greatest amount of accessory joint play. This means the joint surfaces are not tightly compressed, and ligaments and capsule are relatively lax. For example, the knee joint is open packed at about 25 degrees of flexion. Knowing open packed positions helps you answer NPTE questions involving joint mobilization and assessment of joint play.

## Recognizing Closed Packed Position and Its Importance
Closed packed position occurs when articulating joint surfaces are maximally congruent and tightly compressed, resulting in increased ligament tension and joint stability. This position limits accessory movement but provides maximal joint stability. The knee joint, for instance, is closed packed in full extension. Understanding closed packed positions is essential for NPTE orthopedic questions focused on joint stability and injury mechanisms.

Video: [NPTE Study Tips | Open vs Closed Packed Positions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-d_qkd1YozY)

## Key Differences Between Open and Closed Packed Positions for NPTE Success
The fundamental difference lies in joint congruency and ligament tension. Open packed positions have minimal congruency and low tension, allowing joint play, whereas closed packed positions have maximum congruency and high tension, restricting motion but stabilizing the joint. NPTE questions often test your ability to identify these positions for various joints and apply this knowledge to clinical scenarios, such as joint mobilizations or injury assessments.

## Applying Joint Position Concepts to NPTE Musculoskeletal Questions
Many NPTE musculoskeletal questions require you to determine when a joint is more vulnerable or when it has the most mobility based on its position. For example, if a question asks about which position allows the greatest joint play for mobilization, the answer is the open packed position. Conversely, if the question concerns joint stability or ligament tension, the closed packed position is the correct answer. Familiarity with common joint positions for major joints like the shoulder, elbow, knee, and ankle is vital.

## NPTE Test-Taking Strategies for Joint Position Questions
To efficiently answer NPTE questions about open vs closed packed positions, look for terminology clues such as “maximum joint congruency,” “ligament tension,” or “joint play.” These hints indicate which position the question targets. Practice associating specific joint positions with their stability and mobility characteristics. Using flowcharts or tables to memorize joint-specific open and closed packed positions improves recall and speeds up test performance.

## Summary of NPTE Study Tips for Open vs Closed Packed Positions
Mastering the concepts of open packed and closed packed positions is critical for NPTE musculoskeletal exam success. Open packed positions provide maximum joint play and are key for mobilization techniques, whereas closed packed positions offer maximum stability and ligament tension. Recognizing these positions in exam questions enhances your ability to choose the correct answer quickly. The Typical PT channel offers clear explanations and practical tips to solidify your understanding and improve your board exam readiness.

## Questions & answers

**What is the difference between open packed and closed packed positions?**

Open packed position refers to a joint alignment with the least congruency and maximum joint play, while closed packed position is when joint surfaces are maximally congruent, creating maximum stability and ligament tension.

**Why is it important to know open and closed packed positions for the NPTE?**

These positions are frequently tested in NPTE musculoskeletal questions to assess your understanding of joint stability, mobility, and appropriate interventions such as joint mobilizations.

**Can you give an example of an open and closed packed position for a common joint?**

The knee joint is open packed at approximately 25 degrees of flexion, allowing the most joint play, and closed packed when fully extended, providing maximal stability.

**How can I improve my ability to answer NPTE questions about these joint positions?**

Focus on memorizing joint-specific open and closed packed positions, recognize key terminology in questions, and practice applying these concepts to clinical scenarios and exam-style questions.