MBLEx Client Assessment and Treatment Questions and Answers

Question 1

A client presents with an exaggerated posterior curvature of the thoracic spine, often referred to as 'hunchback.' During the visual assessment, what is the correct term for this postural deviation?

Accepted Answer

Kyphosis

Answer

Kyphosis is the medical term for an excessive outward or posterior curvature of the spine, particularly in the thoracic region, resulting in a 'hunchback' appearance. Lordosis is an inward curve, scoliosis is a lateral curve, and anterior pelvic tilt relates to the position of the pelvis.

Question 2

While palpating a client's upper trapezius, a therapist identifies a taut, palpable band of muscle that elicits a local twitch response and referred pain when compressed. What has the therapist most likely located?

Accepted Answer

An active trigger point

Answer

The key characteristics described—a hyperirritable spot within a taut band, a local twitch response upon stimulation, and a pattern of referred pain—are the classic signs of an active myofascial trigger point. Lymph nodes do not produce a twitch response, adhesions are restrictions in fascia without these specific neurological signs, and a bone spur is a bony growth.

Question 3

A massage therapist asks a client to flex their own shoulder as far as they can without any assistance from the therapist. What type of range of motion is being assessed?

Accepted Answer

Active Range of Motion (AROM)

Answer

Active Range of Motion (AROM) involves the client performing a joint movement using their own muscle power without any external assistance. PROM is when the therapist moves the joint, AAROM is when the client moves with the therapist's help, and RROM is when the client moves against an applied resistance.

Question 4

A client's intake form indicates they are in the chronic stage of recovery from a hamstring muscle strain. Which of the following treatment goals is most appropriate for the massage therapist to prioritize?

Accepted Answer

Using cross-fiber friction to reduce adhesions and improve tissue alignment.

Answer

In the chronic stage of healing, after acute inflammation has subsided, the focus shifts to remodeling tissue and breaking down scar tissue (adhesions) to restore mobility and function. Cross-fiber friction is specifically designed for this purpose. Ice and immobilization are appropriate for the acute stage.

Question 5

When using a standard 0-10 numeric pain rating scale during a client assessment, what does a rating of '0' represent?

Accepted Answer

No pain

Answer

On a numeric pain rating scale (NPRS), 0 consistently represents the complete absence of pain. The scale typically ranges from 0 (no pain) to 10 (the worst pain imaginable), allowing clients to quantify their subjective pain experience.

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

MBLEx Client Assessment and Treatment Questions and Answers