Massage Therapy Anatomy & Physiology 2

Question 1

What is the primary role of the parasympathetic nervous system during massage?

Accepted Answer

Promotes relaxation and decreases heart rate

Answer

Parasympathetic activation during massage promotes the 'rest and digest' state, slowing heart rate and reducing tension.

Question 2

The sciatic nerve passes through or beneath which muscle, making it a common compression point?

Accepted Answer

Piriformis

Answer

In many individuals the sciatic nerve passes through or beneath the piriformis, making piriformis tension a cause of sciatica-like symptoms.

Question 3

Which of the following best describes a tendon?

Accepted Answer

Dense regular connective tissue connecting muscle to bone

Answer

Tendons are composed of dense regular connective tissue and transmit the force of muscle contractions to bones.

Question 4

The thoracic outlet is bordered by the first rib, clavicle, and which muscle?

Accepted Answer

Anterior scalene

Answer

The costoclavicular space (thoracic outlet) is bordered anteriorly by the clavicle and posteriorly by the first rib and anterior scalene.

Question 5

Which directional term means closer to the point of attachment or trunk of the body?

Accepted Answer

Proximal

Answer

Proximal describes a position nearer to the point of origin or attachment to the trunk.

Massage Therapy Practice Test