Special Populations and Treatment Adaptations 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 Special Populations and Treatment Adaptations flashcards as text
A client taking antihypertensive medication is finishing a massage session. What should the therapist advise?
Answer: Rise slowly from the table to prevent orthostatic hypotension
Antihypertensive medications combined with massage's vasodilatory effects can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, known as orthostatic hypotension.
Which precaution is most important when working near a total hip replacement?
Answer: Avoid extreme ranges of motion to prevent joint dislocation
After hip replacement, surgical protocols restrict motion to prevent dislocation of the prosthetic joint, and massage therapists must respect these movement limitations.
A client with multiple sclerosis experiences Uhthoff's phenomenon. What does this mean for the treatment plan?
Answer: Avoid elevating the client's body temperature during the session
Uhthoff's phenomenon is the temporary worsening of MS symptoms with elevated body temperature, so heat applications or overheating must be avoided.
A client has peripheral neuropathy in both feet. What is the primary massage concern?
Answer: The client may not accurately perceive pain or pressure in the affected areas
Peripheral neuropathy reduces or distorts sensation, so the client cannot reliably report if pressure is too intense, increasing the risk of undetected injury.
A client who is 6 weeks post-mastectomy asks for a full-body massage. What is the most important consideration for the arm on the affected side?
Answer: Check for signs of lymphedema and use only very light strokes on the arm
Removal of axillary lymph nodes during mastectomy impairs lymph drainage and creates risk for lymphedema; the arm must be treated with minimal pressure.
How does regular massage therapy primarily benefit clients with anxiety disorders?
Answer: It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing physiological stress responses
Massage stimulates the vagus nerve and promotes parasympathetic dominance, reducing cortisol and promoting relaxation that is beneficial for managing anxiety.
A client with significant obesity schedules a massage. Which adaptation is most appropriate?
Answer: Use additional bolsters and adjust table height for proper body mechanics
Additional bolsters support body contours for client comfort and safety, while proper table height protects the therapist's postural mechanics throughout the session.