MBLEx Pathology and Contraindications Questions and Answers

Question 1

A new client arrives with pronounced pitting edema in both lower legs. What is the most appropriate course of action for the massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

Postpone the massage and refer the client to a physician for diagnosis.

Answer

Perform light, upward strokes on the legs to promote venous return.

Answer

Proceed with a full-body massage but avoid the lower legs entirely.

Answer

Apply deep friction to the affected areas to break up fluid congestion.

Question 2

A client with a diagnosis of osteoporosis requests a deep tissue massage to relieve muscle tension. Which of the following is the primary concern for the therapist?

Accepted Answer

Risk of causing a bone fracture due to bone fragility.

Answer

Causing an exacerbation of joint inflammation.

Answer

Increasing the client's blood pressure to unsafe levels.

Answer

Spreading a potential underlying infection.

Question 3

Which of the following conditions is considered a systemic, absolute contraindication for massage therapy?

Accepted Answer

Fever.

Answer

A localized, non-contagious skin rash.

Answer

Chronic, well-managed hypertension.

Answer

A sprained ankle after the first 72 hours.

Question 4

A long-time client arrives for an appointment and points out a large, tender varicose vein on their calf that they hadn't noticed before. The appropriate action is to:

Accepted Answer

Proceed with the massage but avoid applying any pressure directly over the affected vein.

Answer

Apply firm, stripping strokes over the vein to improve blood flow.

Answer

Use hot stones on the area to reduce tenderness before proceeding.

Answer

Gently massage the vein to help reduce its appearance.

Question 5

For a client with active phlebitis in the right leg, massage is:

Accepted Answer

Systemically contraindicated due to the risk of embolism.

Answer

Indicated, as it can help reduce the inflammation.

Answer

Locally contraindicated, so the left leg can receive deep tissue work.

Answer

Permitted if the client's doctor has prescribed blood thinners.

Question 6

A client presents with an undiagnosed, localized skin rash that is red and itchy. Which of the following is the correct classification for this contraindication?

Accepted Answer

Local contraindication requiring avoidance of the affected area.

Answer

Systemic contraindication requiring medical clearance.

Answer

Relative contraindication requiring lighter pressure.

Answer

An endangerment site requiring only effleurage.