FREE Massage Therapist Pathology and Contraindications Questions and Answers Flashcards
6 cards from real Massage Therapist practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 FREE Massage Therapist Pathology and Contraindications Questions and Answers flashcards as text
A client with rheumatoid arthritis is experiencing an acute flare-up with swollen, hot, and painful joints. What is the appropriate action?
Answer: Avoid the inflamed joints and work on unaffected areas with gentle techniques
During an acute RA flare-up, inflamed joints are locally contraindicated, but gentle massage on unaffected areas can still provide benefit.
Which of the following is the BEST reason that massage is contraindicated directly over a site of recent fracture?
Answer: Pressure could displace bone fragments or disrupt healing tissue
Direct pressure over a recent fracture site risks displacing bone fragments, increasing inflammation, and disrupting the healing process.
A client taking blood-thinning medication such as warfarin presents for massage. What is the primary modification the therapist should make?
Answer: Reduce pressure significantly to minimize the risk of bruising
Blood thinners increase the risk of bruising and subcutaneous bleeding, so reduced pressure is necessary to prevent tissue damage.
A client has a mole on their back that appears asymmetrical with irregular borders and varied coloring. What should the therapist do?
Answer: Document the observation and recommend the client see a dermatologist
Asymmetry, irregular borders, and color variation are warning signs of melanoma, and the therapist has a duty to recommend medical evaluation.
Which condition would make abdominal massage specifically contraindicated?
Answer: An abdominal aortic aneurysm
An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a dangerous condition where pressure to the abdomen could risk rupture, making it an absolute local contraindication.
A pregnant client in her second trimester requests a massage. Which positioning modification is most important?
Answer: The client should use side-lying position or a specially designed pregnancy cushion
Side-lying or specially designed pregnancy cushions prevent compression of the inferior vena cava and ensure comfort and safety for both mother and baby.