NCBTMB Massage Application and Techniques 2

Question 1

Which stroke is most appropriate to use at the BEGINNING of a massage session to warm up tissue?

Accepted Answer

Effleurage

Answer

Effleurage is a gliding stroke used at the start of massage to warm superficial tissue and prepare the client for deeper work.

Question 2

When performing pétrissage, the therapist primarily targets which tissue layer?

Accepted Answer

Muscle belly and deeper fascia

Answer

Pétrissage (kneading) compresses and lifts the muscle belly and deeper fascia to improve circulation and reduce muscular tension.

Question 3

A client presents with acute muscle spasm in the upper trapezius. Which technique is CONTRAINDICATED in this scenario?

Accepted Answer

Vigorous tapotement

Answer

Tapotement is a percussive, stimulating technique that can aggravate an acute muscle spasm and is therefore contraindicated.

Question 4

Which direction should effleurage strokes primarily be directed to best support venous return?

Accepted Answer

Distal to proximal (toward the heart)

Answer

Effleurage strokes directed from distal to proximal (toward the heart) support venous return and lymphatic flow.

Question 5

What is the primary physiological effect of friction techniques?

Accepted Answer

Generating local heat and breaking down adhesions

Answer

Friction generates localized heat through mechanical action and helps break down scar tissue and fascial adhesions.

NCBTMB Exam Practice Test