FREE Massage Therapist Pathology and Contraindications Questions and Answers

Question 1

A client presents with a red, warm, swollen area on their lower leg, accompanied by a low-grade fever and general malaise.
They report no recent injury.
What is the most appropriate action for the massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

Refer the client immediately to a medical professional and postpone the massage.

Answer

Perform a very light, gentle massage to the affected area to promote circulation.

Answer

Proceed with the massage, avoiding only the localized swollen area.

Answer

Apply a cold pack to the swollen area and then continue with the massage.

Question 2

Which of the following conditions is considered an absolute contraindication for massage therapy, meaning massage should not be performed under any circumstances?

Accepted Answer

Systemic contagious skin infection (e.g., widespread impetigo)

Answer

Localized muscle soreness after a workout

Answer

Mild tension headache

Answer

Chronic, stable fibromyalgia

Question 3

A client informs you they have uncontrolled hypertension. How should the massage therapist adjust the treatment plan?

Accepted Answer

Massage should be avoided until the client's blood pressure is medically controlled.

Answer

Proceed with a vigorous, stimulating full-body massage to improve circulation.

Answer

Avoid deep pressure and vigorous techniques, focusing on relaxation and gentle strokes.

Answer

Focus solely on the extremities, avoiding the torso and head.

Question 4

When encountering an acute flare-up of rheumatoid arthritis in a client, what is the most appropriate massage approach for the affected joints?

Accepted Answer

Avoid direct massage to the inflamed joints and surrounding tissues.

Answer

Apply deep tissue techniques directly to the inflamed joints to reduce stiffness.

Answer

Perform gentle effleurage and passive range of motion on the joint.

Answer

Use hot stone therapy directly on the inflamed joints to soothe discomfort.

Question 5

A client has a healing surgical incision from an appendectomy performed 3 weeks ago. The incision site is still sensitive and slightly discolored. What is the most appropriate approach for massage near this area?

Accepted Answer

Perform light effleurage and lymphatic drainage gently around the periphery of the incision, avoiding direct contact with the scar.

Answer

Apply deep cross-fiber friction directly to the incision to prevent scar tissue adhesion.

Answer

Massage directly over the incision with moderate pressure to promote blood flow.

Answer

Recommend postponing massage until the incision is completely healed, typically 6-8 weeks post-surgery.

Question 6

Which of the following best describes a local contraindication for massage therapy?

Accepted Answer

A condition that requires modification of the massage technique or avoidance of a specific area.

Answer

A condition where massage is absolutely forbidden anywhere on the body.

Answer

A condition that indicates the need for more vigorous massage.

Answer

A condition that can be ignored if the client provides written consent.

A client presents with a red, warm, swollen area on their lower leg, accompanied by a low-grade fever and general malaise.They report no recent injury.What is the most appropriate action for the massage therapist?

A client presents with a red, warm, swollen area on their lower leg, accompanied by a low-grade fever and general malaise.
They report no recent injury.
What is the most appropriate action for the massage therapist?