Which abnormal end feel is described as a springy block?

• A. Empty
• B. Muscle guarding
• C. Springy block
• D. Capsule laxity

Answer: (C)

A springy block end feel occurs when an intra-articular obstacle resists movement as you approach the end of ROM, then briefly releases and rebounds, giving a spring-like sensation. This is typical of mechanical derangements inside the joint, most classically a displaced meniscal fragment or a loose body in the knee. On exam you’ll feel a definite stop with a brief rebound as you continue to move, which is what clinicians mean by a springy block.

This differs from an empty end feel, where movement is stopped by pain before any real end feel is reached; from muscle guarding, where pain causes a protective, involuntary muscle contraction that masks the true end feel; and from capsule laxity, which usually presents as excessive ROM with a less defined, often softer end feel due to loosened joint structures.