Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Physiological Effects of Massage 4

Question 1

What is the effect of massage on lymphocyte count, particularly natural killer (NK) cells, as supported by research?

Accepted Answer

Massage increases NK cell number and cytotoxicity, enhancing immune surveillance

Answer

Studies, including those on breast cancer patients, show massage increases natural killer cell number and activity, suggesting a direct positive effect on cellular immunity.

Question 2

When tapotement is applied to the thoracic region, what is the primary clinical effect on the respiratory system?

Accepted Answer

It mechanically loosens and helps mobilize bronchial secretions

Answer

Tapotement (percussion) over the chest creates mechanical vibration that loosens and mobilizes mucus and secretions in the airways, aiding expectoration and used in respiratory therapy.

Question 3

What is the physiological basis for the referred sensation experienced when a trigger point is compressed?

Accepted Answer

Central sensitization and convergence of afferent neurons at the dorsal horn

Answer

Trigger point referral occurs because pain signals from a sensitized area converge with afferents from distant regions at the same dorsal horn level, causing the brain to mislocate the pain source.

Question 4

How does massage affect the production of substance P in chronic pain conditions?

Accepted Answer

Massage reduces substance P levels, contributing to decreased pain perception

Answer

Research indicates that massage can reduce the levels of substance P, a nociceptive neurotransmitter involved in pain transmission, thereby decreasing pain sensitivity.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the effect of massage on arterial blood pressure in hypertensive clients?

Accepted Answer

Massage produces a temporary but clinically meaningful reduction in both systolic and diastolic pressure

Answer

Evidence shows that massage produces a temporary reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure through parasympathetic activation and reduced vascular resistance, though effects are not permanent.

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Physiological Effects of Massage 4