PMC Postpartum Massage Techniques 3

Question 1

A postpartum client complains of wrist pain and numbness in the thumb and first two fingers. What condition is most likely?

Accepted Answer

De Quervain's tenosynovitis

Answer

De Quervain's tenosynovitis is extremely common postpartum due to repetitive lifting and holding of the newborn, causing pain along the thumb-side of the wrist.

Question 2

Which Swedish massage stroke is most appropriate to begin a postpartum abdominal session?

Accepted Answer

Light effleurage following colon direction

Answer

Light effleurage following the natural path of the large intestine (ascending, transverse, descending colon) gently warms the tissue and begins to restore abdominal tone.

Question 3

What is lochia and why is it clinically relevant to postpartum massage?

Accepted Answer

Postpartum uterine discharge that, if suddenly increased, signals overexertion

Answer

Lochia is normal postpartum uterine discharge; a sudden increase in bright red lochia after massage may indicate the session was too stimulating or the client is overexerting.

Question 4

Which postpartum emotional condition characterized by persistent sadness, withdrawal, and inability to bond with the baby requires therapist referral?

Accepted Answer

Postpartum depression

Answer

Postpartum depression is a clinical condition requiring mental health referral, distinguished from the transient 'baby blues' by its persistence beyond two weeks and functional impairment.

Question 5

When massaging a postpartum client who is breastfeeding, which area should generally be avoided or treated with extreme care?

Accepted Answer

Breast tissue itself

Answer

Breast tissue should be treated with extreme caution or avoided unless the therapist has specific training in breast massage, as it can be engorged, tender, or at risk for mastitis.

(PMC) Prenatal Massage Certification Practice Test

(PMC) Prenatal Massage Certification Practice Test

PMC Postpartum Massage Techniques 3