Massage Therapist Body Mechanics and Self-Care

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of proper body mechanics for massage therapists?

Accepted Answer

To prevent musculoskeletal injury and extend career longevity

Answer

To improve client comfort during the session

Answer

To increase the speed of massage strokes

Answer

To reduce the need for lubricants

Question 2

When performing table massage, which stance provides the best stability and power transfer?

Accepted Answer

Asymmetrical lunge stance with one foot forward

Answer

Parallel stance with feet together

Answer

Wide side-step stance facing the table

Answer

Crossed-leg stance for balance

Question 3

During effleurage strokes, where should a massage therapist primarily generate force?

Accepted Answer

From the core and lower body

Answer

From the wrists and fingers

Answer

From the shoulders and neck

Answer

From the elbows and forearms only

Question 4

The ideal massage table height is generally set so that the therapist's fists or palms, when hanging at their sides, are level with:

Accepted Answer

The surface of the table

Answer

The client's shoulder

Answer

The client's hip

Answer

The therapist's waist

Question 5

Which of the following is the most common repetitive stress injury among massage therapists?

Accepted Answer

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Answer

Plantar fasciitis

Answer

Rotator cuff tear

Answer

Iliotibial band syndrome

Question 6

What does the term 'stacking joints' mean in massage therapy body mechanics?

Accepted Answer

Aligning joints vertically to transfer weight efficiently with minimal muscle effort

Answer

Placing joints under maximum load to increase pressure

Answer

Crossing one joint over another for stability

Answer

Locking all joints rigid during a stroke

Question 7

Proper body mechanics during massage require the therapist's spine to be in what position?

Accepted Answer

Neutral alignment with natural curves maintained

Answer

Fully flexed to reach the client

Answer

Extended backward to counterbalance arm pressure

Answer

Laterally flexed toward the working side