MBLEx Pathology and Contraindications Questions and Answers

Question 1

A new client arrives with pronounced pitting edema in both lower legs. What is the most appropriate course of action for the massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

Postpone the massage and refer the client to a physician for diagnosis.

Answer

Pitting edema, especially when bilateral, can be a sign of a serious underlying systemic condition such as congestive heart failure, kidney failure, or liver failure. It is considered a systemic or absolute contraindication until a medical diagnosis is made and massage is approved by a physician.

Question 2

A client with a diagnosis of osteoporosis requests a deep tissue massage to relieve muscle tension. Which of the following is the primary concern for the therapist?

Accepted Answer

Risk of causing a bone fracture due to bone fragility.

Answer

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle. Applying deep pressure or aggressive techniques creates a significant risk of causing a bone fracture. Massage should be modified to use only light, gentle pressure.

Question 3

Which of the following conditions is considered a systemic, absolute contraindication for massage therapy?

Accepted Answer

Fever.

Answer

A fever is a sign that the body is fighting a systemic infection. Massage increases circulation, which can potentially spread the infection and place additional stress on the body, making the condition worse. Therefore, it is an absolute contraindication, and the session should be postponed.

Question 4

A long-time client arrives for an appointment and points out a large, tender varicose vein on their calf that they hadn't noticed before. The appropriate action is to:

Accepted Answer

Proceed with the massage but avoid applying any pressure directly over the affected vein.

Answer

Varicose veins are a local contraindication for deep or direct pressure. Massaging directly on them can cause pain, damage the vein, or potentially dislodge a blood clot (thrombus). The therapist should avoid the specific area.

Question 5

For a client with active phlebitis in the right leg, massage is:

Accepted Answer

Systemically contraindicated due to the risk of embolism.

Answer

Phlebitis is the inflammation of a vein, often associated with a blood clot (thrombophlebitis). Massage is systemically contraindicated because of the severe risk of dislodging the clot, which could travel to the lungs and cause a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

MBLEx Pathology and Contraindications Questions and Answers