Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination MBLEx Test Client Assessment and Planning 1

Question 1

A client's health intake form reveals they are taking warfarin (Coumadin) for a heart condition. Which massage technique adjustment is most appropriate for this client?

Accepted Answer

Avoid deep pressure and vigorous techniques due to increased bleeding risk

Answer

Warfarin is an anticoagulant that increases bleeding risk. Deep pressure or vigorous techniques such as deep tissue work can cause bruising or internal bleeding in clients taking blood thinners, so gentler pressure is required.

Question 2

During a postural assessment, a therapist observes that a client's right shoulder is elevated and their head is laterally flexed toward the right. Which muscle is most likely shortened on the right side?

Accepted Answer

Upper trapezius

Answer

The upper trapezius elevates the scapula and laterally flexes the cervical spine toward the same side. A shortened upper trapezius on the right would pull the shoulder up and tilt the head to the right.

Question 3

When performing range of motion testing, a therapist finds that a client's shoulder abduction is limited to 90 degrees with a firm, springy end-feel. What does this end-feel most likely indicate?

Accepted Answer

Muscular tightness or spasm

Answer

A firm, springy end-feel typically indicates muscular tightness or spasm. A capsular end-feel is firmer and leathery, a bony block produces a hard stop, and ligamentous laxity would produce an abnormally loose end-feel.

Question 4

A new client reports a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in their right calf, resolved six months ago. What is the most appropriate course of action before massaging the lower extremities?

Accepted Answer

Obtain physician clearance and apply only gentle techniques if approved

Answer

A history of DVT is a significant contraindication concern. Even a resolved DVT warrants physician clearance before massage because vigorous techniques could dislodge any remaining thrombus, potentially causing a pulmonary embolism.

Question 5

Which of the following is an example of a local contraindication for massage therapy?

Accepted Answer

An acute sunburn on the client's back

Answer

An acute sunburn is a local contraindication — massage is contraindicated directly over the affected area but can be performed on unaffected areas of the body. The other options represent absolute or systemic contraindications requiring full avoidance or physician clearance.

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination MBLEx Test Client Assessment and Planning 1