Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Pronation of the forearm involves which movement? → The palm rotating to face downward
2. The Achilles tendon is the common tendon of which two muscles? → Gastrocnemius and soleus
3. Which type of muscle contraction occurs when the muscle generates tension but neither the joint angle nor the muscle length changes? → Isometric
4. Which massage technique is specifically indicated as a primary treatment approach for edema reduction? → Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)
5. The origin of a muscle is: → The stationary attachment point
6. During assessment, a therapist notices a client has pitting edema in both ankles. What is the most appropriate response? → Inquire about the cause and refer to a physician if unknown
7. Which muscle is the primary flexor of the hip joint? → Iliacus
8. Which organ produces bile that aids in the digestion and absorption of fats? → Liver
9. Anterior pelvic tilt is associated with increased lumbar: → Lordosis
10. A massage therapist working in a spa setting notices a coworker performing techniques outside their scope of practice. What should the therapist do? → Report the concern to a supervisor or the appropriate licensing board
11. The tensor fasciae latae (TFL) primarily assists with which hip movement? → Hip flexion, abduction, and internal rotation
12. Which physiological effect of massage directly contributes to reduced muscle soreness after intense exercise? → Enhanced removal of metabolic waste products
13. A new client's intake form reveals they are currently taking anticoagulant medication. How should this information influence the therapist's treatment plan? → Avoid deep pressure techniques due to increased bruising risk
14. Massage promotes interstitial fluid movement primarily through which mechanism? → Mechanical compression and release of tissues during massage strokes
15. A client is standing and performs abduction of the hip by lifting their leg out to the side. This movement occurs primarily in which cardinal plane? → Frontal
16. Which of the following is the BEST example of a measurable and specific treatment goal? → Client will report reduced neck pain from 6/10 to 3/10 within four sessions
17. A massage therapist is subpoenaed to testify about a client's treatment records. What must the therapist do before disclosing this information in court? → Obtain a signed authorization from the client or comply with the court order
18. Movements such as flexion and extension occur in which plane of the body? → Sagittal plane
19. A client requests that the massage therapist perform a technique outside their scope of practice. What should the therapist do? → Decline and refer the client to an appropriate practitioner
20. Which action by a therapist most clearly demonstrates cultural competency in professional practice? → Asking a client about cultural preferences or sensitivities that may affect treatment
21. During a Swedish massage, effleurage strokes should generally be directed toward which area? → Toward the heart
22. Which type of joint allows for the greatest range of motion? → Ball-and-socket joint
23. A client reports numbness and tingling radiating down their left arm during the initial assessment. What is the most appropriate next step? → Refer the client for medical evaluation before proceeding
24. Which condition is classified as a local contraindication rather than an absolute contraindication for massage? → A small bruise on the forearm
25. A massage therapist discovers that a colleague is practicing while impaired by alcohol. What is the therapist's professional obligation? → Report the situation to the appropriate licensing board or regulatory authority
26. What effect does deep tissue massage have on muscle spindle activity? → It decreases muscle spindle firing, reducing muscle tone
27. How does massage affect respiratory function in clients with chronic obstructive conditions? → It can improve chest expansion and reduce accessory muscle tension
28. The lymphatic system's primary function related to massage is: → Removing waste and excess fluid from tissues
29. Which muscle is the primary hip extensor during activities like climbing stairs? → Gluteus maximus
30. A muscle that assists the prime mover by contributing to the same joint action is classified as a: → Synergist