PMC Musculoskeletal Changes in Pregnancy 3

Question 1

Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) during pregnancy is characterized by pain at which anatomical location?

Accepted Answer

Anterior midline pubic joint

Answer

SPD involves pain and instability at the symphysis pubis, the cartilaginous joint at the anterior midline where the two pubic bones meet.

Question 2

A prenatal massage therapist notices a client's shoulders are rounding forward significantly in the second trimester. Which postural change most likely drives this compensatory pattern?

Accepted Answer

Breast enlargement increasing anterior chest weight

Answer

Breast enlargement increases anterior chest weight, pulling the shoulders forward and contributing to increased thoracic kyphosis during pregnancy.

Question 3

During pregnancy, the foot often flattens and lengthens due to which combination of factors?

Accepted Answer

Ligament laxity and increased body weight

Answer

Relaxin-induced ligament laxity combined with increased body weight causes the plantar arch to flatten and the foot to lengthen during pregnancy.

Question 4

Which position is safest for addressing low back pain via massage in a client who is 32 weeks pregnant?

Accepted Answer

Side-lying with supportive pillows

Answer

Side-lying (lateral recumbent) position with supportive pillows is the safest and most comfortable position for massage in the third trimester.

Question 5

Anterior pelvic tilt in pregnancy causes which muscle to become adaptively shortened?

Accepted Answer

Iliopsoas

Answer

Anterior pelvic tilt shortens and tightens the iliopsoas (hip flexors) while the opposing gluteal and abdominal muscles lengthen and weaken.

(PMC) Prenatal Massage Certification Practice Test

(PMC) Prenatal Massage Certification Practice Test

PMC Musculoskeletal Changes in Pregnancy 3