Massage Therapy Pathology & Contraindications

Question 1

Deep tissue massage is absolutely contraindicated over an area with:

Accepted Answer

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Answer

DVT is an absolute contraindication because massage could dislodge the clot, potentially causing a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.

Question 2

A client presents with redness, warmth, swelling, and pain in a joint. These cardinal signs indicate:

Accepted Answer

Acute inflammation

Answer

The four cardinal signs—redness (rubor), warmth (calor), swelling (tumor), and pain (dolor)—indicate acute inflammation, a local contraindication.

Question 3

Which skin condition is a local contraindication for massage?

Accepted Answer

Herpes zoster (shingles) outbreak

Answer

An active herpes zoster outbreak is a local contraindication because direct contact can spread the virus and cause extreme pain.

Question 4

Massage is generally contraindicated for clients in which trimester of pregnancy without special positioning?

Accepted Answer

First trimester (weeks 1–13)

Answer

Many therapists avoid massage in the first trimester due to elevated miscarriage risk, though evidence is limited; referral to a prenatal specialist is common.

Question 5

Fever is considered a systemic contraindication because massage may:

Accepted Answer

Increase metabolic rate and worsen the fever

Answer

Massage increases metabolic activity and circulation, which can raise body temperature and intensify a fever.

Massage Therapy Practice Test

Massage Therapy Practice Test

Massage Therapy Pathology & Contraindications