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

The client's symptoms (localized redness, warmth, swelling, and tenderness in the calf) are classic signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot in a deep vein. This is an absolute contraindication for massage. Massaging the area could dislodge the clot, leading to a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. The only safe and professional action is to stop immediately and refer the client for emergency medical care. [3, 5]

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

An active influenza infection with a fever.

Answer

An active influenza infection with a fever is a systemic contraindication, meaning massage should not be performed at all. Massage can increase circulation and lymphatic flow, potentially spreading the infection throughout the body and worsening the client's symptoms. [5, 8] The other options are local contraindications, which require avoiding the specific area but do not necessarily prevent a massage session.

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

The client is describing peripheral neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes that impairs sensation. Because the client cannot provide accurate feedback on pressure, deep or firm work could cause tissue damage without them realizing it. The safest approach is to use gentle, cautious pressure on the feet and communicate frequently. [4, 7]

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

Anticoagulants reduce the blood's ability to clot, significantly increasing the risk of bruising and internal bleeding. Techniques that involve deep, focused pressure, such as myofascial release, deep friction, or deep tissue stripping, can easily damage capillaries and should be avoided. Lighter, more superficial work is indicated. [7, 9, 12]

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

Pitting edema is a significant red flag for systemic issues, most notably cardiovascular problems like congestive heart failure. It can also indicate kidney or liver disease. [15, 22] Because massage affects fluid circulation, proceeding without medical clearance could dangerously overload a compromised system. This finding makes massage systemically contraindicated until the underlying cause is diagnosed and treatment is cleared by a physician.

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

MBLEx Test Pathology and Contraindications Questions and Answers