Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination FREE MBLEx MCQ Questions and Answers 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which muscle is the primary hip flexor and is commonly addressed in massage therapy for clients with lower back pain?
- Psoas major (Correct answer)
- Gluteus maximus
- Rectus femoris
- Tensor fasciae latae
Correct answer: Psoas major
The psoas major is the primary hip flexor and when hypertonic can contribute to anterior pelvic tilt and lower back pain.
Question 2: What is the appropriate action for a massage therapist if a client reports sudden numbness and tingling radiating down the arm during a neck massage?
- Continue with lighter pressure
- Immediately stop the technique and assess the client (Correct answer)
- Apply ice to the area and continue
- Increase pressure to release the trigger point
Correct answer: Immediately stop the technique and assess the client
Sudden numbness and tingling during cervical work may indicate nerve compression and the therapist must stop immediately to ensure client safety.
Question 3: Which type of end feel is considered abnormal and may indicate joint pathology?
- Soft tissue approximation
- Bone-to-bone
- Empty end feel (Correct answer)
- Tissue stretch
Correct answer: Empty end feel
An empty end feel occurs when the client stops movement due to pain before any mechanical barrier is reached, suggesting possible serious pathology.
Question 4: During a Swedish massage, effleurage strokes should generally be directed toward which anatomical structure?
- Away from the spine
- Toward the heart (Correct answer)
- Toward the distal extremities
- Perpendicular to muscle fibers
Correct answer: Toward the heart
Effleurage strokes are directed toward the heart to assist venous return and lymphatic flow.
Question 5: A massage therapist notices a client has a bruise on their forearm. What is the most appropriate course of action regarding that area?
- Massage directly over the bruise to promote healing
- Avoid the bruised area entirely (Correct answer)
- Apply deep friction to break up the hematoma
- Use tapotement over the bruise to increase circulation
Correct answer: Avoid the bruised area entirely
Bruises are a local contraindication and the therapist should avoid direct pressure on the area to prevent further tissue damage.
Question 6: Which organ is located in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen and must be considered during abdominal massage?
- Spleen
- Stomach
- Liver (Correct answer)
- Descending colon
Correct answer: Liver
The liver occupies most of the right upper quadrant and therapists must use appropriate pressure when working in this area.
Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination FREE MBLEx MCQ Questions and Answers 2
Which muscle is the primary hip flexor and is commonly addressed in massage therapy for clients with lower back pain?