FREE Massage Therapist Massage Techniques and Effects Questions and Answers Flashcards

Which form of tapotement is performed using cupped hands to create a hollow sound upon contact?

Answer: Cupping

Cupping uses cupped hands striking the skin to create a hollow sound, commonly used over the thorax to loosen mucus.

A therapist applies sustained pressure to a myofascial trigger point until the tissue releases. This technique is known as:

Answer: Ischemic compression

Ischemic compression involves applying sustained pressure to a trigger point to reduce hypersensitivity and restore normal tissue function.

Which physiological effect explains why massage can reduce muscle spasm?

Answer: Stimulation of the Golgi tendon organs causing autogenic inhibition

Pressure on the Golgi tendon organs triggers autogenic inhibition, a reflex that causes the muscle to relax.

What distinguishes vibration from shaking as a massage technique?

Answer: Vibration uses fine trembling movements applied to a fixed point while shaking moves the entire limb

Vibration involves fine, rapid trembling applied to a specific point, whereas shaking involves oscillating an entire limb or muscle group.

When performing petrissage on the upper trapezius, what is the expected local circulatory effect?

Answer: Increased local blood flow and enhanced nutrient delivery to the tissue

The kneading action of petrissage increases local circulation, bringing fresh oxygen and nutrients while removing metabolic waste.

A client reports reduced pain perception after receiving massage. Which neurological mechanism best explains this outcome?

Answer: Gate control theory — mechanoreceptor stimulation blocks pain signal transmission at the spinal cord

Gate control theory states that stimulation of large-diameter mechanoreceptors through touch can inhibit pain signal transmission at the spinal cord level.