LMT Pathology & Contraindications

Question 1

Which of the following is considered an absolute systemic contraindication for massage therapy?

Accepted Answer

Acute fever above 101°F (38.3°C)

Answer

Mild delayed onset muscle soreness

Answer

Healed surgical scar tissue

Answer

Mild hypertension controlled by medication

Question 2

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is an absolute contraindication for massage primarily because:

Accepted Answer

Massage may dislodge the clot and cause a life-threatening pulmonary embolism

Answer

It causes excessive muscle tension in surrounding tissues

Answer

It significantly increases local nerve sensitivity

Answer

It permanently reduces lymphatic drainage capacity

Question 3

A local contraindication for massage therapy means the therapist should:

Accepted Answer

Avoid massage only in the affected area while treating other areas normally

Answer

Avoid massage for the entire body session

Answer

Apply extra pressure to the affected area to stimulate healing

Answer

Obtain full physician clearance before proceeding with any massage

Question 4

Massage is generally contraindicated directly over areas of:

Accepted Answer

Acute inflammation

Answer

Healed scar tissue older than 6 months

Answer

Mildly tight or hypertonic muscles

Answer

Normal skin temperature

Question 5

Which of the following skin conditions represents a local contraindication for massage?

Accepted Answer

Open wound or skin abrasion

Answer

Mild generalized dry skin

Answer

Psoriasis plaques in full remission

Answer

Fully healed mild sunburn

Question 6

A client arrives with uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension). What is the most appropriate course of action for the massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

Refer the client to their physician and defer massage until medically cleared

Answer

Perform deep tissue massage to reduce stress and lower blood pressure

Answer

Perform only light effleurage strokes limited to the extremities

Answer

Avoid only the head and neck region and continue normally

Question 7

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) during an acute disease flare is best classified as:

Accepted Answer

An absolute contraindication for massage

Answer

A local contraindication limited to skin lesion areas

Answer

A relative contraindication requiring minor technique modification

Answer

Not a contraindication — massage is encouraged during flares