Mixed Deck — All AMTA Topics Flashcards

End feel during passive ROM testing refers to:

Answer: The quality of resistance felt at the limit of range of motion

End feel is the quality of tissue resistance perceived by the therapist at the limit of passive ROM, helping classify normal vs. pathological joint restrictions.

During a spa body treatment, what is the PRIMARY reason for keeping the client properly draped?

Answer: To maintain modesty, warmth, and professional boundaries

Proper draping during spa treatments protects client modesty, maintains appropriate professional boundaries, and regulates body temperature.

Which Swedish massage stroke is best used to address specific muscle adhesions and scar tissue?

Answer: Friction

Friction is applied in circular or transverse movements to create heat and break down adhesions within soft tissue.

A client reports having lymphedema in the right arm. Which technique is most appropriate for this area?

Answer: Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)

Manual lymphatic drainage uses light, rhythmic strokes to redirect lymph fluid and is the primary technique used for lymphedema management.

Which part of the SOAP note documents the therapist's objective findings from palpation and observation?

Answer: O — Objective

The Objective section of a SOAP note records measurable, observable findings such as palpation results, range of motion, and postural observations.

A common methodological limitation in massage therapy research is:

Answer: Difficulty blinding participants to whether they received massage or not

Because participants typically know whether they received massage, true double-blinding is nearly impossible, making it difficult to fully account for placebo effects.

Structural integration (Rolfing) focuses primarily on realigning which tissue system?

Answer: Fascia and connective tissue

Rolfing, developed by Ida Rolf, systematically manipulates the myofascial network to improve posture and alignment with gravity.

All muscles come in pairs, the agonist and the ________________.

Answer: Antagonist

Explanation: The antagonist works to counter the torque of the agonist, often used in slowing down a motion. Occurring in pairs, the agonist and the antagonist often balance each other, one contracts and the other relaxes.

Which of the following skin conditions is NOT a contraindication for massage?

Answer: Well-managed, non-inflamed psoriasis

Well-managed, non-inflamed psoriasis is not contagious and non-acute, so massage over stable plaques is generally acceptable with client permission.

Which massage stroke uses long, gliding movements applied with the palms and is typically used to begin and end a massage session?

Answer: Effleurage

Effleurage consists of long, gliding strokes used to warm tissue, assess tone, and transition between techniques.

Which hydrotherapy technique involves rubbing the body briskly with a coarse, dry mitt to stimulate circulation?

Answer: Dry brush exfoliation

Dry brush exfoliation uses a firm-bristled brush on dry skin before bathing to slough dead cells and stimulate lymphatic and circulatory flow.

Craniosacral therapy focuses on the rhythmic motion of which fluid?

Answer: Cerebrospinal fluid

Craniosacral therapy assesses and facilitates the subtle rhythmic fluctuation of cerebrospinal fluid along the craniosacral system.

A client with osteoporosis requires which modification to massage?

Answer: Lighter pressure and avoidance of heavy compressive techniques over affected bones

Osteoporosis reduces bone density and increases fracture risk, requiring lighter pressure and avoidance of heavy compression over fragile structures.

Which business structure provides the MOST personal liability protection for a sole massage therapist?

Answer: Limited Liability Company (LLC)

An LLC separates personal assets from business liabilities, offering personal liability protection while maintaining flexibility for a solo practitioner.

Which source would be considered MOST reliable when researching evidence for massage therapy outcomes?

Answer: A peer-reviewed journal article published in a reputable database

Peer-reviewed journal articles indexed in reputable databases represent the highest standard of published evidence for clinical decision-making.

Aromatherapy in massage uses essential oils that are MOST commonly derived from:

Answer: Plants, flowers, roots, and resins

Essential oils are highly concentrated volatile compounds extracted from plant materials including flowers, leaves, bark, roots, and resins.

Which massage modality specifically incorporates assisted stretching and joint mobilization along energy lines?

Answer: Thai massage

Traditional Thai massage combines acupressure, passive yoga-like stretching, and joint mobilization along Sen energy lines.

What is the primary concern when performing massage on elderly clients with osteoporosis?

Answer: Heightened risk of bone fracture from excessive pressure

Osteoporosis reduces bone density and makes bones fragile, requiring therapists to use gentle pressure to avoid fractures.

Which of the following is the safest approach when performing massage on a pediatric client?

Answer: Obtain parental or guardian consent and use very light, gentle strokes

Pediatric massage requires parental consent and lighter, age-appropriate pressure due to the developing musculoskeletal system of children.

Which hydrotherapy application uses steam to open pores and soften tissue?

Answer: Steam cabinet or sauna

Steam cabinets and saunas use moist or dry heat to raise skin temperature, open pores, promote sweating, and soften superficial tissue.