Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination MBLEx Pathology and Contraindications 1

Question 1

A client discloses they are currently undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer and their oncologist has cleared them for massage. Which approach is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Provide gentle, light-pressure massage while avoiding the treatment site and any ports or catheters

Answer

With oncologist clearance, massage is appropriate but must be modified: light pressure is used to avoid stressing compromised tissues and the immune system, and treatment sites, ports, and catheters are avoided as local contraindications to prevent injury or infection.

Question 2

Which of the following skin conditions would be considered an absolute contraindication, requiring the therapist to avoid massage entirely on the affected area and surrounding tissue?

Accepted Answer

Impetigo presenting with oozing, crusted lesions on the forearm

Answer

Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection with open or oozing lesions, making it an absolute local contraindication. Massaging over it risks spreading the infection to other areas of the client's body and to the therapist.

Question 3

A client reports a recent diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis currently in an acute flare. What is the most appropriate therapist response?

Accepted Answer

Postpone massage on the acutely inflamed joints but provide gentle, systemic relaxation massage to uninvolved areas

Answer

During an acute RA flare, inflamed joints are a local contraindication — direct work would increase inflammation and pain. However, gentle relaxation massage to uninvolved areas is safe and beneficial, and heat should be avoided on acutely inflamed tissue.

Question 4

Which of the following conditions is characterized by abnormal cell growth forming a thrombus that can break loose and travel to the lungs, making massage a systemic contraindication?

Accepted Answer

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Answer

DVT involves a blood clot in a deep vein that can embolize to the lungs (pulmonary embolism) if dislodged. Massage anywhere on the body can increase circulation and risk moving the thrombus, making it a systemic contraindication until medically resolved.

Question 5

A client has type 1 diabetes and mentions they have reduced sensation in both feet. What is the primary concern that should guide the therapist's approach to the lower extremities?

Accepted Answer

Risk of undetected tissue damage due to neuropathy impairing the client's pain feedback

Answer

Peripheral neuropathy from diabetes reduces or eliminates pain sensation in the feet. The client cannot reliably report discomfort or injury from excessive pressure, so the therapist must use lighter, more careful techniques and closely monitor tissue response.

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination MBLEx Pathology and Contraindications 1