MBLEx Test Pathology and Contraindications Questions and Answers

Question 1

A new client presents with a localized, red, warm, and swollen area on their lower leg, reporting tenderness in the calf.
Which of the following is the most appropriate action for the massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

Immediately postpone the massage and refer the client for urgent medical evaluation.

Answer

Perform light, soothing strokes on the area to assess tissue response.

Answer

Apply a cold pack and proceed with massaging other areas of the body.

Answer

Vigorously massage the calf to break up the suspected muscle knot.

Question 2

Which of the following conditions represents a systemic contraindication for massage therapy?

Accepted Answer

An active influenza infection with a fever.

Answer

A small, healing abrasion on the knee.

Answer

Chronic psoriasis on the elbows.

Answer

Mild, stable varicose veins on the lower legs.

Question 3

A long-term client with type 2 diabetes mentions experiencing recent numbness and tingling in their feet. What is the most important treatment modification for the therapist to make?

Accepted Answer

Use gentle pressure and avoid deep work on the feet due to impaired sensation.

Answer

Use deep, stripping strokes on the feet to increase circulation.

Answer

Apply firm pressure, as the client's pain sensitivity is reduced.

Answer

Focus the entire session on the feet using reflexology techniques.

Question 4

A client's intake form indicates they are taking an anticoagulant (blood thinner). Which of the following techniques should be avoided or significantly modified?

Accepted Answer

Myofascial release and deep friction

Answer

Gentle effleurage and petrissage

Answer

Passive range of motion

Answer

Superficial lymphatic drainage

Question 5

Pitting edema, where an indentation remains in the skin after pressure is applied, should alert a massage therapist to a potential underlying pathology of which body system?

Accepted Answer

Cardiovascular

Answer

Endocrine

Answer

Integumentary

Answer

Muscular

Question 6

A client arrives for their appointment with an active, weeping cold sore (herpes simplex) on their lip. What is the most appropriate course of action?

Accepted Answer

Politely reschedule the appointment until the lesion is fully healed.

Answer

Proceed with the massage but avoid the face and head.

Answer

Apply a small bandage over the lesion and continue the session.

Answer

Wear gloves for the entire duration of the massage.

A new client presents with a localized, red, warm, and swollen area on their lower leg, reporting tenderness in the calf.Which of the following is the most appropriate action for the massage therapist?

A new client presents with a localized, red, warm, and swollen area on their lower leg, reporting tenderness in the calf.
Which of the following is the most appropriate action for the massage therapist?