Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Physiological Effects of Massage 5

Question 1

What is the physiological explanation for the erythema (redness) that appears on skin during and after massage?

Accepted Answer

Histamine-mediated vasodilation of superficial dermal capillaries

Answer

Mechanical stimulation causes local mast cells to release histamine, which dilates superficial capillaries and increases blood flow to the skin, producing the characteristic redness (hyperemia).

Question 2

Which physiological change best explains improved joint range of motion following regular massage therapy?

Accepted Answer

Decreased viscosity of synovial fluid and reduced periarticular soft tissue tension

Answer

Massage warms and mobilizes synovial fluid (reducing its viscosity) and reduces tension in muscles, tendons, and fascia surrounding the joint, collectively improving range of motion.

Question 3

How does massage affect muscle fiber recruitment threshold in athletes?

Accepted Answer

It normalizes resting tone, allowing more efficient recruitment when needed

Answer

By reducing chronic hypertonia and normalizing resting muscle tone, massage allows motor units to be recruited more efficiently during activity without the handicap of pre-existing tension.

Question 4

What is the term for the increase in blood flow to a region immediately following the release of sustained compression during massage?

Accepted Answer

Reactive hyperemia

Answer

Reactive hyperemia is the sudden increase in blood flow following removal of occlusive pressure, as accumulation of local vasodilatory metabolites causes rapid dilation of previously compressed vessels.

Question 5

In the context of massage physiology, what is fascial unwinding designed to achieve?

Accepted Answer

Release strain patterns within fascia through slow sustained positional holds that allow piezoelectric remodeling

Answer

Fascial unwinding uses slow, sustained holds that allow piezoelectric responses and mechanoreceptor signaling to reduce tension patterns within the fascial network, restoring its gliding capacity.

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Physiological Effects of Massage 5