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Pathology & Contraindications Flashcards

6 cards from real Massage Therapy practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 Pathology & Contraindications flashcards as text

  1. Deep tissue massage is absolutely contraindicated over an area with:

    Answer: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

    DVT is an absolute contraindication because massage could dislodge the clot, potentially causing a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.

  2. A client presents with redness, warmth, swelling, and pain in a joint. These cardinal signs indicate:

    Answer: Acute inflammation

    The four cardinal signs—redness (rubor), warmth (calor), swelling (tumor), and pain (dolor)—indicate acute inflammation, a local contraindication.

  3. Which skin condition is a local contraindication for massage?

    Answer: Herpes zoster (shingles) outbreak

    An active herpes zoster outbreak is a local contraindication because direct contact can spread the virus and cause extreme pain.

  4. Massage is generally contraindicated for clients in which trimester of pregnancy without special positioning?

    Answer: First trimester (weeks 1–13)

    Many therapists avoid massage in the first trimester due to elevated miscarriage risk, though evidence is limited; referral to a prenatal specialist is common.

  5. Fever is considered a systemic contraindication because massage may:

    Answer: Increase metabolic rate and worsen the fever

    Massage increases metabolic activity and circulation, which can raise body temperature and intensify a fever.

  6. Which condition requires a physician's clearance before massage but is not an absolute contraindication?

    Answer: Controlled hypertension

    Controlled hypertension is a relative contraindication; massage is often beneficial, but physician clearance ensures no undue cardiovascular risk.