Massage Therapist Client Assessment and Treatment Questions and Answers

Question 1

A client states, "My neck feels stiff, and I have a dull ache at the base of my skull, especially after working on my computer for a few hours." In which section of a SOAP note would the massage therapist document this information?

Accepted Answer

Subjective

Answer

Objective

Answer

Assessment

Answer

Plan

Question 2

A client complains of numbness, tingling, and weakness that radiates down their arm into the fourth and fifth fingers. They mention these symptoms are worse when they carry a heavy bag on their shoulder. These symptoms are most characteristic of compression affecting which of the following structures?

Accepted Answer

Brachial plexus

Answer

Axillary nerve

Answer

Median nerve

Answer

Musculocutaneous nerve

Question 3

Which of the following muscle patterns is most characteristic of Upper Crossed Syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Tight pectoralis major/minor and weak rhomboids/serratus anterior

Answer

Tight hamstrings and weak quadriceps

Answer

Tight erector spinae and weak latissimus dorsi

Answer

Tight rectus femoris/iliopsoas and weak gluteus maximus/abdominals

Question 4

A massage therapist is performing an assessment and asks the client to move their own arm through its full range of motion without any assistance from the therapist. What type of range of motion testing is being performed?

Accepted Answer

Active Range of Motion (AROM)

Answer

Passive Range of Motion (PROM)

Answer

Resisted Range of Motion (RROM)

Answer

Active-Assisted Range of Motion (AAROM)

Question 5

A client has a chronic, well-healed scar from a previous surgery that feels adhered to the underlying tissue, limiting fascial mobility. Which massage technique is most specifically indicated to address this type of fibrous adhesion?

Accepted Answer

Cross-fiber friction

Answer

Tapotement

Answer

Effleurage

Answer

Nerve stroke

Question 6

Following an acute ankle sprain that occurred within the last 24 hours, what is the primary physiological reason for applying cold therapy (cryotherapy)?

Accepted Answer

To decrease nerve conduction velocity and cause local vasoconstriction

Answer

To increase local circulation and bring more nutrients to the area

Answer

To increase muscle spindle activity and prevent muscle guarding

Answer

To soften collagen and increase tissue extensibility