MBLEx Test Benefits and Effects of Massage Questions and Answers

Question 1

A client receiving massage for general relaxation experiences a significant reduction in stress. This response is primarily due to the stimulation of which part of the nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic nervous system

Answer

Massage therapy promotes relaxation by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the 'rest and digest' response. This activation helps lower heart rate, reduce blood pressure, and decrease the production of stress hormones like cortisol.

Question 2

According to the gate control theory of pain, how does massage help alleviate a client's chronic lower back pain?

Accepted Answer

By stimulating large-diameter nerve fibers to block pain signals sent by smaller fibers

Answer

The gate control theory of pain suggests that non-painful stimuli can 'close the gate' to painful stimuli. Massage stimulates large, fast A-beta nerve fibers, which carry touch and pressure sensations. These signals travel to the spinal cord faster than the pain signals from smaller A-delta and C fibers, effectively blocking the pain signals from reaching the brain.

Question 3

A therapist applies friction and petrissage to a client's quadriceps, and the area becomes red and warm to the touch. What is the correct physiological term for this localized increase in blood flow?

Accepted Answer

Hyperemia

Answer

Hyperemia is the term for an excess of blood in the vessels supplying an organ or other part of the body. During massage, mechanical and reflexive actions cause vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), leading to a temporary, localized increase in blood flow, which manifests as redness (erythema) and warmth.

Question 4

Which of the following describes a primarily mechanical effect of massage therapy?

Accepted Answer

Reduction of fascial adhesions

Answer

A mechanical effect is a direct result of the physical forces of massage, such as compression, stretching, and friction. Reducing fascial adhesions is achieved by physically manipulating and separating adhered connective tissues. Decreased cortisol, increased serotonin, and lowered heart rate are reflexive effects, mediated by the nervous and endocrine systems in response to the massage.

Question 5

A client reports feeling less anxious and having an improved mood after a series of massage sessions. This psychological benefit is most directly linked to which biochemical change?

Accepted Answer

A decrease in cortisol and an increase in serotonin

Answer

Research consistently shows that massage therapy can decrease levels of the stress hormone cortisol while increasing levels of neurotransmitters associated with mood regulation and happiness, such as serotonin and dopamine.

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Practice Test

MBLEx Test Benefits and Effects of Massage Questions and Answers