AMTA Research and Evidence-Based Practice 2

Question 1

Which of the following BEST describes a 'control group' in a massage therapy study?

Accepted Answer

A group that does not receive the experimental treatment, used for comparison

Answer

The group that receives the most intensive massage treatment

Answer

Participants who have the highest baseline pain scores

Answer

The therapist supervising the trial

Question 2

In research, 'statistically significant' findings mean:

Accepted Answer

The results are unlikely to have occurred by chance alone

Answer

The results are clinically important and large in magnitude

Answer

The study was funded by a major institution

Answer

The sample size was very large

Question 3

Research showing that massage therapy reduces cortisol levels MOST directly supports its use for:

Accepted Answer

Reducing physiological stress responses

Answer

Improving grip strength

Answer

Increasing bone density

Answer

Enhancing visual acuity

Question 4

Which of the following BEST illustrates applying evidence-based practice in clinical decision-making?

Accepted Answer

Selecting an approach based on current research, clinical experience, and client goals

Answer

Using a technique because it was taught first in school

Answer

Copying a colleague's treatment protocol without review

Answer

Avoiding any technique not featured in a popular trade magazine

Question 5

A common methodological limitation in massage therapy research is:

Accepted Answer

Difficulty blinding participants to whether they received massage or not

Answer

Too many participants in studies

Answer

Excessive government funding

Answer

Overly standardized treatment protocols

Question 6

Which source would be considered MOST reliable when researching evidence for massage therapy outcomes?

Accepted Answer

A peer-reviewed journal article published in a reputable database

Answer

A massage product company's website

Answer

A social media testimonial from a satisfied client

Answer

An opinion piece by a celebrity therapist