AMTA Massage Techniques and Modalities 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Myofascial release is primarily designed to address restrictions in which tissue?
- Bone
- Fascia (Correct answer)
- Cartilage
- Synovial membrane
Correct answer: Fascia
Myofascial release targets the fascia—the continuous connective tissue network—to restore mobility and reduce pain.
Question 2: In trigger point therapy, a trigger point is best described as:
- An inflamed bursa
- A hyperirritable spot in a taut band of muscle (Correct answer)
- A herniated disc pressing on a nerve
- A joint capsule restriction
Correct answer: A hyperirritable spot in a taut band of muscle
A trigger point is a hyperirritable locus within a taut band of skeletal muscle that produces referred pain when compressed.
Question 3: Which massage modality is based on the theory that reflex areas on the feet correspond to organs and body parts?
- Shiatsu
- Reflexology (Correct answer)
- Craniosacral therapy
- Rolfing
Correct answer: Reflexology
Reflexology applies pressure to specific reflex zones on the feet (and sometimes hands) believed to correspond to other body systems.
Question 4: Sports massage applied before an athletic event is intended to:
- Promote deep relaxation and recovery
- Prepare muscles for activity and increase circulation (Correct answer)
- Reduce scar tissue from prior injuries
- Assess range of motion deficits
Correct answer: Prepare muscles for activity and increase circulation
Pre-event sports massage uses brisk, stimulating techniques to warm tissue, enhance circulation, and prepare the athlete for performance.
Question 5: Structural integration (Rolfing) focuses primarily on realigning which tissue system?
- Muscular system
- Fascia and connective tissue (Correct answer)
- Lymphatic system
- Peripheral nervous system
Correct answer: Fascia and connective tissue
Rolfing, developed by Ida Rolf, systematically manipulates the myofascial network to improve posture and alignment with gravity.
Question 6: Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) uses which type of pressure to move lymph fluid?
- Deep firm pressure
- Light, rhythmic, pumping strokes (Correct answer)
- Cross-fiber friction
- Percussive tapotement
Correct answer: Light, rhythmic, pumping strokes
MLD employs very light, rhythmic, wave-like strokes that mimic the natural pumping action of the lymphatic vessels.
AMTA Massage Techniques and Modalities 2
Myofascial release is primarily designed to address restrictions in which tissue?