Massage Therapy Pathology & Contraindications 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Fibromyalgia is characterized by:
- Widespread musculoskeletal pain and tender points (Correct answer)
- Joint destruction from autoimmune attack
- Peripheral nerve demyelination
- Muscle enzyme deficiency
Correct answer: Widespread musculoskeletal pain and tender points
Fibromyalgia presents with widespread pain, fatigue, and tenderness at specific points; gentle massage can help manage symptoms.
Question 2: A client reports that one leg is swollen, red, and warm after a long flight. The therapist should:
- Refer the client to a physician immediately and withhold massage (Correct answer)
- Apply gentle lymphatic drainage to the affected leg
- Apply deep petrissage to reduce the swelling
- Apply ice and continue the session on the unaffected leg
Correct answer: Refer the client to a physician immediately and withhold massage
These symptoms strongly suggest DVT; the therapist must refer the client to a physician immediately, as massage could cause a fatal pulmonary embolism.
Question 3: Diabetes can affect massage because uncontrolled diabetes may cause:
- Peripheral neuropathy reducing sensation accuracy (Correct answer)
- Excessive joint mobility
- Increased collagen production
- Heightened immune response
Correct answer: Peripheral neuropathy reducing sensation accuracy
Peripheral neuropathy from diabetes reduces sensation, so the client may not accurately report pain, increasing injury risk from deep pressure.
Question 4: Osteoporosis is a condition where massage must be modified to avoid:
- Fractures due to decreased bone density (Correct answer)
- Muscle spasms from overstimulation
- Excessive lymph fluid production
- Skin tears from friction
Correct answer: Fractures due to decreased bone density
Osteoporosis weakens bones, making them susceptible to fractures; the therapist must use lighter pressure and avoid joint mobilization.
Question 5: Which cancer-related concern makes massage over a tumor site an absolute contraindication?
- Risk of spreading cancer cells through the circulatory and lymphatic system (Correct answer)
- Causing chemical burns from massage lubricant
- Triggering an allergic reaction to massage oil
- Overstimulating the immune system
Correct answer: Risk of spreading cancer cells through the circulatory and lymphatic system
Massage directly over a tumor site is contraindicated because it may increase local circulation and lymphatic flow, potentially facilitating metastasis.
Question 6: Raynaud's phenomenon causes fingers and toes to turn white or blue in response to:
- Cold or stress causing vasospasm (Correct answer)
- Excess heat causing vasodilation
- Bacterial infection
- Nerve entrapment
Correct answer: Cold or stress causing vasospasm
Raynaud's phenomenon involves vasospasm of digital arteries triggered by cold or emotional stress, causing color changes and numbness.
Massage Therapy Pathology & Contraindications 2
Fibromyalgia is characterized by: