Massage Techniques Flashcards
7 cards from real PMC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Massage Techniques flashcards as text
A prenatal client asks about receiving deep tissue massage on her lower back. The most appropriate therapist response is to:
Answer: Assess for contraindications and apply modified, moderate depth pressure avoiding the sacral foramina
Deep tissue work can be adapted for the lower back in pregnancy by assessing contraindications and avoiding specific pressure points such as the sacral foramina.
Which massage stroke is most appropriate for addressing tension in the scalenes of a pregnant client experiencing thoracic outlet syndrome symptoms?
Answer: Gentle pin-and-stretch or myofascial release of the scalenes
Gentle pin-and-stretch or myofascial release of the scalenes reduces compression on the neurovascular bundle without aggressive or potentially harmful pressure.
During a prenatal massage, the therapist observes sudden facial flushing, headache, and blurred vision reported by the client. The appropriate action is to:
Answer: Stop the session immediately and refer for emergency evaluation
These symptoms can indicate preeclampsia or hypertensive crisis, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate cessation of massage and urgent medical evaluation.
Friction techniques applied to the sacroiliac joint region during pregnancy are intended to:
Answer: Increase circulation and reduce localized joint tension
Friction around the SI joint increases local circulation and can reduce peri-articular tension without directly manipulating the hypermobile joint.
When performing prenatal massage on a client with diastasis recti, which technique is absolutely contraindicated?
Answer: Direct strengthening compression or deep work across the linea alba
Direct pressure or compressive work across the linea alba can worsen the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles in diastasis recti.
The technique of passive positional release (strain-counterstrain) is appropriate in prenatal massage because it:
Answer: Places the tissue in a position of comfort to reduce pain without stretch or pressure
Strain-counterstrain positions the body in comfort to inhibit pain reflexes, making it a gentle and safe option for managing tender points during pregnancy.
In prenatal massage, 'feathering' or nerve strokes at the end of a session primarily serve to:
Answer: Provide a soothing transition that signals the conclusion of treatment
Light feathering strokes at the end of a session calm the nervous system and signal the body that the massage is concluding, easing the client back to full awareness.