Benefits and Effects of Massage Flashcards
7 cards from real Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Benefits and Effects of Massage flashcards as text
Massage therapy is known to decrease levels of cortisol. What is the primary significance of this effect?
Answer: Lower cortisol levels are associated with reduced stress and improved immune function
Cortisol is the primary stress hormone, and its reduction following massage correlates with decreased physiological stress and enhanced immune function.
A sedentary office worker receives regular massage for postural dysfunction. Which long-term benefit is most directly expected?
Answer: Reduced muscle imbalances and improved postural awareness
Regular massage reduces hypertonicity in shortened muscles and improves proprioceptive awareness, helping to correct muscle imbalances underlying poor posture.
What is the thermoregulatory effect of massage on superficial tissues?
Answer: Massage increases local tissue temperature through increased circulation and friction
The mechanical action of massage increases local blood flow and generates friction heat, raising superficial tissue temperature.
Which client would most benefit from massage's documented effects on serotonin levels?
Answer: A client managing symptoms of mild depression and anxiety
Massage has been shown to increase serotonin levels, and serotonin deficiency is associated with depression and anxiety disorders.
Massage promotes interstitial fluid movement primarily through which mechanism?
Answer: Mechanical compression and release of tissues during massage strokes
The compression and release cycle during massage strokes mechanically drives interstitial fluid into lymphatic capillaries, promoting lymphatic drainage.
A therapist notices that a client's breathing deepens and slows during a massage. This reflex response indicates:
Answer: Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system and a relaxation response
Deepened, slower breathing is a hallmark sign of parasympathetic activation and indicates the client is entering a healthy relaxation state.
How does massage benefit the integumentary system specifically?
Answer: It improves sebaceous gland secretion, skin elasticity, and desquamation of dead cells
Massage stimulates sebaceous glands, improves skin circulation and elasticity, and mechanically assists in the removal of dead skin cells.