Pathology & Contraindications Flashcards

Which type of edema is a contraindication for massage therapy?

Answer: Pitting edema of unknown origin

Pitting edema of unknown origin may indicate cardiac, renal, or hepatic dysfunction, making massage contraindicated until the underlying cause is diagnosed by a physician.

A client sustained a fracture 10 days ago that remains in a cast. Regarding massage to the fractured region, the therapist should:

Answer: Avoid massage to the fracture site entirely until healing is confirmed

Massage near a recent fracture site is contraindicated as the bone is in the early inflammatory and early repair stages, and massage could disrupt callus formation and proper healing.

Fever is a systemic contraindication for massage primarily because:

Answer: It signals active infection; massage increases circulation that can spread pathogens and adds physiological stress to the body

Fever signals the immune system is actively fighting infection; massage increases circulatory flow, which can help spread pathogens and places additional metabolic stress on an already taxed body.

Which of the following conditions most clearly requires physician clearance before massage therapy can be initiated?

Answer: Recent myocardial infarction (heart attack)

A recent myocardial infarction requires medical clearance because the heart muscle is in a vulnerable healing phase and massage-induced cardiovascular changes could be dangerous.

Varicose veins are classified as which type of contraindication for massage?

Answer: Local contraindication — avoid direct pressure on the distended veins

Varicose veins are a local contraindication; direct pressure over the distended, fragile veins is avoided, but gentle massage on surrounding unaffected tissue may be acceptable.

Massage during the first trimester of pregnancy is typically classified as:

Answer: A relative contraindication requiring special positioning, precautions, and often physician clearance

First-trimester massage is generally a relative contraindication; the elevated risk of miscarriage in early pregnancy leads most therapists to require physician clearance and apply extra precautions.

Direct massage over a known malignant tumor site is:

Answer: An absolute local contraindication

Direct massage over a malignant tumor is absolutely contraindicated as increasing local circulation and lymphatic flow may theoretically stimulate metastasis of cancer cells.