Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination MBLEx Test Pathology and Contraindications 1

Question 1

A client arrives for a massage and mentions they are currently undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer. Which approach is most appropriate for the massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

Obtain physician clearance and modify pressure, avoiding treatment sites and compromised areas

Answer

Refuse to work with the client until chemotherapy is complete

Answer

Perform a full-pressure massage focusing on lymphatic drainage

Answer

Proceed normally since cancer itself is not a contraindication to touch

Question 2

A client reports a recent diagnosis of uncontrolled hypertension with a resting blood pressure of 180/110 mmHg. What is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Refer the client to their physician before providing massage and reschedule

Answer

Proceed with a relaxation massage focused on the lower extremities only

Answer

Apply deep tissue techniques to reduce sympathetic nervous system activity

Answer

Perform massage but avoid the neck and head region

Question 3

Which of the following skin conditions represents a local contraindication requiring the therapist to avoid only the affected area rather than canceling the entire session?

Accepted Answer

A small area of psoriasis on the client's elbow

Answer

Systemic lupus erythematosus with active flare

Answer

Shingles (herpes zoster) with widespread active lesions

Answer

Severe peripheral vascular disease affecting both legs

Question 4

A client with type 1 diabetes asks about massage. Which precaution is most important for the therapist to implement?

Accepted Answer

Check for peripheral neuropathy and avoid deep pressure on insensate areas

Answer

Avoid all massage of the lower extremities due to circulation risk

Answer

Apply heat packs to stimulate insulin production before the session

Answer

Perform only Swedish effleurage since diabetes contraindicates all other techniques

Question 5

A massage therapist notices that a client's lower leg is significantly swollen, warm to the touch, and reddened compared to the other leg, and the client mentions pain with dorsiflexion. What should the therapist do?

Accepted Answer

Immediately stop the session and refer the client for emergency medical evaluation

Answer

Apply lymphatic drainage massage to reduce the edema

Answer

Elevate the leg and apply gentle compressive strokes to promote fluid return

Answer

Reduce pressure but continue the session since edema is a common benign condition

Question 6

A client recovering from a mild ischemic stroke three months ago has residual weakness on one side and takes blood-thinning medication. What is the most appropriate modification for massage?

Accepted Answer

Use light to moderate pressure, avoid aggressive circulatory techniques, and watch for bruising due to anticoagulants

Answer

Avoid massage entirely until the client has been symptom-free for one full year

Answer

Focus deep tissue work on the affected side to help restore muscle tone and strength

Answer

Perform vigorous tapotement on the unaffected side to stimulate the nervous system