Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination MBLEx Pathology and Contraindications Questions and Answers 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A client presents with a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the left calf. What is the most appropriate course of action for the massage therapist?
- Massage the area gently to improve circulation
- Apply heat to the affected leg and proceed with light effleurage
- Refer the client to their physician and avoid massage on the affected limb (Correct answer)
- Elevate the leg and perform deep tissue work on the thigh only
Correct answer: Refer the client to their physician and avoid massage on the affected limb
DVT is an absolute contraindication for massage on the affected limb due to the risk of dislodging the clot and causing a pulmonary embolism.
Question 2: Which condition is classified as a local contraindication rather than an absolute contraindication for massage?
- Fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit
- A small, localized skin rash on the forearm (Correct answer)
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Acute pneumonia
Correct answer: A small, localized skin rash on the forearm
A localized skin rash is a local contraindication, meaning massage can be performed on other areas of the body while avoiding the affected site.
Question 3: A client with osteoporosis requests deep tissue massage. What modification should the therapist make?
- Use deep pressure on long bones to stimulate bone density
- Perform vigorous tapotement to all areas
- Reduce pressure significantly and avoid techniques that stress fragile bones (Correct answer)
- Decline to work with the client entirely
Correct answer: Reduce pressure significantly and avoid techniques that stress fragile bones
Osteoporosis weakens bones, so lighter pressure and gentle techniques are necessary to avoid fractures or injury.
Question 4: Which pathological condition involves chronic inflammation of the bronchial tubes with excessive mucus production?
- Emphysema
- Chronic bronchitis (Correct answer)
- Asthma
- Pleurisy
Correct answer: Chronic bronchitis
Chronic bronchitis is characterized by persistent inflammation of the bronchial tubes and overproduction of mucus, often caused by long-term irritant exposure.
Question 5: A client is taking anticoagulant medication. How should this affect the massage treatment plan?
- No modifications are necessary since the medication is managed by a doctor
- Use lighter pressure to reduce the risk of bruising and internal bleeding (Correct answer)
- Focus exclusively on deep tissue techniques to counteract blood thinning
- Only perform energy work and avoid all physical contact
Correct answer: Use lighter pressure to reduce the risk of bruising and internal bleeding
Anticoagulant medications increase bleeding and bruising risk, so lighter pressure is essential to prevent subcutaneous hemorrhaging.
Question 6: What is the primary concern when a client presents with signs of jaundice during a massage intake?
- The yellow discoloration may transfer to the sheets
- The client may be experiencing liver dysfunction that contraindicates massage (Correct answer)
- Jaundice only affects skin appearance and has no impact on massage
- The therapist should apply extra lotion to the discolored areas
Correct answer: The client may be experiencing liver dysfunction that contraindicates massage
Jaundice indicates possible liver dysfunction or disease, which may be a systemic contraindication requiring physician clearance before massage.
