Massage Therapist Massage Techniques and Effects Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which massage technique is primarily characterized by lifting, wringing, and squeezing the soft tissues?

Accepted Answer

Petrissage

Answer

Petrissage consists of movements that lift, knead, roll, and squeeze tissues. It is intended to increase local circulation and 'milk' metabolic wastes from the area.

Question 2

A client reports high levels of stress and presents with significant, generalized guarding and hypertonicity in the upper back and neck. To primarily achieve a reflexive reduction in nervous system firing and promote relaxation, which technique is most appropriate to begin the session?

Accepted Answer

Slow, rhythmic effleurage

Answer

Slow, rhythmic effleurage is deeply calming to the central nervous system. It stimulates the parasympathetic response ('rest and digest'), which helps to reduce overall muscle tension and guarding, making it an ideal opening technique for a stressed client.

Question 3

Which of the following is considered a primary MECHANICAL effect of massage therapy?

Accepted Answer

Increased venous and lymphatic return

Answer

The physical pressure and movement of massage strokes mechanically push deoxygenated blood and lymph fluid through their respective vessels, aiding circulation. The other options are primarily reflexive effects, mediated by the nervous system's response to touch.

Question 4

A massage therapist is treating a client with a chronic, non-acute tendinopathy of the Achilles tendon, characterized by palpable fibrous adhesions. Which technique is most specifically designed to break down these adhesions and promote a functional realignment of collagen fibers?

Accepted Answer

Transverse Friction

Answer

Transverse friction, developed by Dr. James Cyriax, involves applying deep, localized friction perpendicular to the direction of the fibers. This is intended to create a therapeutic inflammation, break down adhesions, and facilitate the formation of mobile, well-aligned scar tissue.

Question 5

During a pre-event sports massage, a therapist applies a stimulating percussion technique using cupped hands to create a hollow sound. What is this specific form of tapotement called?

Accepted Answer

Cupping

Answer

Cupping is the technique that uses cupped hands to strike the skin, creating a vacuum effect that is thought to help loosen congestion and stimulate underlying tissues. Hacking uses the ulnar border of the hand, pounding uses a loose fist, and tapping uses the fingertips.

Massage Therapist Practice Test

Massage Therapist Practice Test

Massage Therapist Massage Techniques and Effects Questions and Answers