Massage Application and Techniques Flashcards
7 cards from real NCBTMB practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Massage Application and Techniques flashcards as text
Muscle energy technique (MET) requires the client to do which of the following during the procedure?
Answer: Actively contract the target muscle against therapist resistance
MET requires the client to perform an isometric or isotonic contraction against therapist resistance, which then facilitates post-contraction relaxation and improved range of motion.
Which massage technique uses alternating hot and cold applications to create a pumping action in circulation?
Answer: Hydrotherapy contrast therapy
Contrast hydrotherapy alternates hot and cold applications to vasodilate and vasoconstrict blood vessels, creating a circulatory pumping effect.
A therapist notices that a client's muscle belly is extremely tender to even light palpation and the skin is warm and reddened. What is the MOST appropriate response?
Answer: Avoid the area; refer the client to a physician
Extreme tenderness, warmth, and redness are signs of acute local inflammation or possible infection, which are local contraindications requiring physician evaluation.
When applying cross-fiber friction to a muscle belly (as opposed to a tendon), what is the MAIN intended outcome?
Answer: Break down intramuscular adhesions and restore fiber gliding
Cross-fiber friction applied to a muscle belly targets intramuscular adhesions, freeing individual muscle fibers to glide properly against each other.
What is the CORRECT draping practice when working on a client's gluteal region?
Answer: Use a specific gluteal draping technique that exposes only the working area while maintaining modesty
Specific gluteal draping techniques expose only the area being worked on while keeping adjacent structures covered, maintaining client modesty and professional standards.
In Swedish massage, which stroke is typically used LAST during work on a body region to signal the end of work in that area?
Answer: Effleurage
Effleurage is typically used at the conclusion of work on a region as a finishing stroke that integrates the work done and provides a smooth transition.
A therapist uses the forearm instead of the thumb to apply broad, deep pressure. What is the PRIMARY advantage of this approach?
Answer: Reduced therapist fatigue and broader tissue coverage
Using the forearm distributes pressure over a broader surface, covers more tissue per stroke, and significantly reduces strain on the therapist's thumbs and wrists.