Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Massage Techniques and Application

Question 1

Which massage stroke is characterized by long, gliding movements applied with the palms and fingers along the length of a muscle?

Accepted Answer

Effleurage

Answer

Effleurage consists of long, gliding strokes applied with the palms and fingers, making it the foundational Swedish massage technique used to warm tissue and promote circulation.

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of petrissage in massage therapy?

Accepted Answer

To lift, squeeze, and knead muscles to increase circulation and release tension

Answer

Petrissage involves lifting, squeezing, and kneading muscle tissue, which increases local circulation, breaks up adhesions, and promotes removal of metabolic waste.

Question 3

Tapotement is best described as which type of massage movement?

Accepted Answer

Rhythmic striking or percussive movements applied with the hands

Answer

Tapotement is a percussive technique involving rhythmic striking of the tissue with various hand positions, which stimulates superficial nerves and invigorates the area.

Question 4

In which direction should effleurage strokes be applied to best promote venous return?

Accepted Answer

Toward the heart (centripetal direction)

Answer

Effleurage applied toward the heart (centripetally) pushes blood through the venous system back to the central circulation, enhancing venous return.

Question 5

Cross-fiber friction is primarily used by massage therapists to:

Accepted Answer

Break down adhesions and scar tissue in tendons and ligaments

Answer

Cross-fiber friction is applied perpendicular to muscle or tendon fibers to break down adhesions, realign collagen fibers, and restore mobility in scar tissue.

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Massage Techniques and Application