Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Physiological Effects of Massage 2

Question 1

Which physiological mechanism best explains why massage reduces delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)?

Accepted Answer

Enhanced lymphatic drainage reducing inflammatory mediators

Answer

Massage reduces DOMS primarily by enhancing lymphatic drainage, which helps clear inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and cytokines from the tissue.

Question 2

What happens to venous blood flow when effleurage strokes are applied toward the heart?

Accepted Answer

It is mechanically assisted, improving return to the heart

Answer

Centripetal effleurage mechanically compresses veins and pushes blood toward the heart, assisting venous return and reducing peripheral pooling.

Question 3

Which neurotransmitter is primarily responsible for the pain-inhibiting effect of massage on the gate control theory of pain?

Accepted Answer

Serotonin

Answer

Serotonin released during massage activates large-diameter afferent fibers that 'close the gate' at the dorsal horn, inhibiting pain signal transmission.

Question 4

What is the primary physiological effect of massage on interstitial fluid?

Accepted Answer

It moves interstitial fluid into lymphatic capillaries, reducing edema

Answer

Massage pressure moves excess interstitial fluid into lymphatic capillaries through their one-way valves, which is why massage effectively reduces non-pitting edema.

Question 5

How does massage affect the parasympathetic nervous system in a client experiencing chronic stress?

Accepted Answer

It activates the parasympathetic branch, promoting rest and recovery

Answer

Massage stimulates parasympathetic activity, lowering heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol while promoting the 'rest and digest' state that counters chronic stress.

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Physiological Effects of Massage 2