CMP CMP Pathology & Contraindications 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which condition is an absolute contraindication for massage therapy?
- Mild muscle soreness
- Deep vein thrombosis (Correct answer)
- Chronic low back pain
- Tension headache
Correct answer: Deep vein thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis is an absolute contraindication because massage can dislodge the clot and cause a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.
Question 2: A client presents with acute local inflammation and swelling. The massage therapist should:
- Apply deep tissue techniques to the area
- Avoid the inflamed area entirely (Correct answer)
- Use heavy pressure to reduce swelling
- Perform friction therapy over the site
Correct answer: Avoid the inflamed area entirely
Acute inflammation is a local contraindication because massage over the area can worsen swelling and delay healing.
Question 3: Which skin condition is a local contraindication for massage?
- Healed surgical scar
- Eczema in remission
- Open wound (Correct answer)
- Stretch marks
Correct answer: Open wound
Open wounds are local contraindications because direct contact can introduce infection and disrupt healing tissue.
Question 4: Massage is contraindicated directly over varicose veins primarily because:
- It causes temporary discomfort
- It may damage fragile vessel walls (Correct answer)
- It increases venous return too rapidly
- It causes permanent skin discoloration
Correct answer: It may damage fragile vessel walls
Varicose veins have weakened, dilated vessel walls that can be damaged or ruptured by direct pressure during massage.
Question 5: A client presents with a fever of 101°F. The therapist should:
- Proceed with light relaxation massage
- Postpone massage until the fever resolves (Correct answer)
- Apply hot towels and massage gently
- Perform only foot reflexology
Correct answer: Postpone massage until the fever resolves
Fever indicates systemic infection, and massage can spread pathogens and place additional stress on a compromised immune system.
Question 6: Which of the following is NOT a contraindication for massage therapy?
- Active phlebitis
- Fracture less than 6 weeks old
- Well-controlled hypertension with physician clearance (Correct answer)
- Acute infectious skin rash
Correct answer: Well-controlled hypertension with physician clearance
Well-controlled hypertension with physician clearance is generally considered safe for massage, unlike acute or unstable conditions.
CMP CMP Pathology & Contraindications 1
Which condition is an absolute contraindication for massage therapy?