General Flashcards

A client presents with edema in one leg only after a long flight. What condition should the therapist suspect and how should they respond?

Answer: Deep vein thrombosis; refer immediately and do not massage

Unilateral leg edema after prolonged travel is a red flag for deep vein thrombosis, and massage could dislodge a clot causing a pulmonary embolism.

Which of the following BEST defines the term 'scope of practice' for a massage therapist?

Answer: The range of services legally and professionally permitted for a licensed therapist

Scope of practice defines the procedures, actions, and processes permitted by law and professional standards for a given license.

The rotator cuff is composed of which four muscles?

Answer: Supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, subscapularis

The rotator cuff consists of supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis — the SITS muscles.

Which type of joint movement occurs when the angle between two bones decreases?

Answer: Flexion

Flexion decreases the angle between articulating bones, such as bending the elbow or knee.

A client reports tingling and numbness in the pinky and ring fingers. Which nerve is most likely affected?

Answer: Ulnar nerve

The ulnar nerve innervates the ring and pinky fingers; compression or irritation of this nerve causes tingling in those digits.

What is the primary goal of informed consent in massage therapy?

Answer: To ensure the client understands and agrees to the proposed treatment

Informed consent ensures clients understand the nature, benefits, and risks of treatment and voluntarily agree before the session begins.

Which physiological effect does slow, rhythmic effleurage typically produce?

Answer: Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system

Slow, rhythmic effleurage activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation, decreased heart rate, and reduced muscle tension.