MBLEx Test Benefits and Effects of Massage Questions and Answers

Question 1

A client receiving massage for general relaxation experiences a significant reduction in stress. This response is primarily due to the stimulation of which part of the nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic nervous system

Answer

Somatic nervous system

Answer

Sympathetic nervous system

Answer

Central nervous system

Question 2

According to the gate control theory of pain, how does massage help alleviate a client's chronic lower back pain?

Accepted Answer

By stimulating large-diameter nerve fibers to block pain signals sent by smaller fibers

Answer

By increasing the production of synovial fluid in the lumbar spine

Answer

By breaking down crystalline deposits that have formed in the muscle tissue

Answer

By increasing the electrical charge of the muscle cells to reset their pain threshold

Question 3

A therapist applies friction and petrissage to a client's quadriceps, and the area becomes red and warm to the touch. What is the correct physiological term for this localized increase in blood flow?

Accepted Answer

Hyperemia

Answer

Ischemia

Answer

Cyanosis

Answer

Hemostasis

Question 4

Which of the following describes a primarily mechanical effect of massage therapy?

Accepted Answer

Reduction of fascial adhesions

Answer

Decreased cortisol levels

Answer

Increased serotonin production

Answer

Lowered heart rate

Question 5

A client reports feeling less anxious and having an improved mood after a series of massage sessions. This psychological benefit is most directly linked to which biochemical change?

Accepted Answer

A decrease in cortisol and an increase in serotonin

Answer

An increase in cortisol and a decrease in dopamine

Answer

A decrease in adrenaline and an increase in histamine

Answer

An increase in aldosterone and a decrease in oxytocin

Question 6

When performing manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) on a client, what is the primary intended physiological effect?

Accepted Answer

To stimulate the movement of interstitial fluid into lymphatic capillaries

Answer

To increase arterial blood circulation to the muscles

Answer

To break down scar tissue and fascial adhesions

Answer

To trigger a strong parasympathetic nervous system response for deep relaxation