Massage Therapist Massage Therapist 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which muscle is primarily targeted when a therapist works on the posterior triangle of the neck to address whiplash injuries?
- Sternocleidomastoid
- Trapezius
- Scalenes (Correct answer)
- Levator scapulae
Correct answer: Scalenes
The scalene muscles in the posterior triangle are commonly strained in whiplash and can compress the brachial plexus.
Question 2: A massage therapist notices a suspicious mole on a client's back. The most appropriate action is to:
- Massage around it carefully
- Document it, inform the client, and recommend they see a dermatologist (Correct answer)
- Apply extra lubricant over it and continue
- Refuse to massage the entire back
Correct answer: Document it, inform the client, and recommend they see a dermatologist
Therapists are not diagnosticians, but they have a duty to note and inform clients about unusual skin changes and refer to the appropriate professional.
Question 3: Which hydrotherapy application uses alternating hot and cold to stimulate the vascular system?
- Paraffin bath
- Contrast bath (Correct answer)
- Steam cabinet
- Ice massage
Correct answer: Contrast bath
Contrast baths alternate between hot and cold water to cause vasodilation and vasoconstriction, improving circulation.
Question 4: What term describes an involuntary local muscle contraction within a taut band, identifiable by palpation and causing referred pain?
- Spasm
- Trigger point (Correct answer)
- Contracture
- Adhesion
Correct answer: Trigger point
A trigger point is a hyperirritable spot in skeletal muscle associated with a taut band that produces referred pain patterns.
Question 5: The informed consent process requires that the therapist:
- Obtain verbal agreement only before starting
- Provide written documentation of techniques used after the session
- Explain the treatment, benefits, risks, and alternatives so the client can freely consent (Correct answer)
- Have the client sign a waiver releasing all liability
Correct answer: Explain the treatment, benefits, risks, and alternatives so the client can freely consent
Informed consent means the client receives enough information about the proposed treatment to make an autonomous, voluntary decision.
Question 6: Which stroke technique is MOST appropriate for warming up superficial tissues at the start of a massage?
- Deep cross-fiber friction
- Tapotement
- Superficial effleurage (Correct answer)
- Sustained compression
Correct answer: Superficial effleurage
Superficial effleurage is a light, gliding stroke used at the start to warm tissues, assess the area, and prepare the client.
Question 7: Massage is generally contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy primarily because:
- The mother's blood pressure is too high
- The risk of miscarriage is greatest and massage may exacerbate complications (Correct answer)
- Prone positioning is impossible at that stage
- The client's pain tolerance is reduced
Correct answer: The risk of miscarriage is greatest and massage may exacerbate complications
The first trimester carries the highest risk of spontaneous miscarriage, so many therapists require physician clearance before working with first-trimester clients.
Massage Therapist Massage Therapist 3
Which muscle is primarily targeted when a therapist works on the posterior triangle of the neck to address whiplash injuries?