MBLEX Prep: Massage's Systemic & Physiological Effects, Exams of Advanced Education

A comprehensive set of questions and answers related to the systemic and physiological effects of massage therapy. It covers key concepts such as the nervous system, hormones, and the mechanical and psychological effects of massage. Valuable for students preparing for the mblex exam or anyone interested in learning more about the science behind massage therapy.

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2024/2025

Available from 01/11/2025

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MBLEX Prep Questions And Answers
Graded A+
Systemic effects of massage are: - Answer-Effects that cause changes to the body's
chemistry, circulation, metabolism, and nervous system
Secondary effects of massage are: - Answer-Effects that occur as a result of primary
effects
Research indicates that massage decreases this stress-related chemical in the body: -
Answer-Cortisol
This hormone, which promotes cell division, is most actively produced during sleep. -
Answer-Growth hormone
The nervous system branch that is responsible for slowing the heart rate, increasing
digestive activity, and encouraging rest is the: - Answer-Parasympathetic nervous
system
The relaxation response brought on by activation of the parasympathetic nervous
system is an example of this effect. - Answer-Reflexive
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to events that trigger
the fight-or-flight response. Because massage activates the parasympathetic nervous
system response, it makes sense that massage: - Answer-Decreases cortisol
Research has determined that relaxation massage can decrease: - Answer-Blood
pressure
In massage therapy, a benefit is best described as: - Answer-A positive response to
massage that supports well-being
Research indicates that massage positively influences serotonin and dopamine levels in
the body and is associated with increased well-being. Based on this research, massage
is: - Answer-Indicated for people with depression
In massage theory, "indication" means: - Answer-That the application of massage is
advisable and likely to benefit the client positively
These types of effects are the direct result of manual manipulation of soft tissue, for
example, the separation of muscle fibers that occurs with moderate to deep pressure. -
Answer-Mechanical
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MBLEX Prep Questions And Answers

Graded A+

Systemic effects of massage are: - Answer-Effects that cause changes to the body's chemistry, circulation, metabolism, and nervous system Secondary effects of massage are: - Answer-Effects that occur as a result of primary effects Research indicates that massage decreases this stress-related chemical in the body: - Answer-Cortisol This hormone, which promotes cell division, is most actively produced during sleep. - Answer-Growth hormone The nervous system branch that is responsible for slowing the heart rate, increasing digestive activity, and encouraging rest is the: - Answer-Parasympathetic nervous system The relaxation response brought on by activation of the parasympathetic nervous system is an example of this effect. - Answer-Reflexive Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to events that trigger the fight-or-flight response. Because massage activates the parasympathetic nervous system response, it makes sense that massage: - Answer-Decreases cortisol Research has determined that relaxation massage can decrease: - Answer-Blood pressure In massage therapy, a benefit is best described as: - Answer-A positive response to massage that supports well-being Research indicates that massage positively influences serotonin and dopamine levels in the body and is associated with increased well-being. Based on this research, massage is: - Answer-Indicated for people with depression In massage theory, "indication" means: - Answer-That the application of massage is advisable and likely to benefit the client positively These types of effects are the direct result of manual manipulation of soft tissue, for example, the separation of muscle fibers that occurs with moderate to deep pressure. - Answer-Mechanical

A full body change in body chemistry as a result of massage is best described as: - Answer-A systemic effect The client's mental and emotional experience of a massage session is a result of: - Answer-Psychological effects Dr. Tiffany Field of the Touch Research Institute began her research on the effects of touch by working with: - Answer-Premature babies This chemical causes local blood vessels to dilate, thus increasing local circulation when it is released. - Answer-Histamine The symptoms of stress are a result of activation of which branch of the central nervous system? - Answer-Sympathetic This theory explains how massage, heat, and cold can interrupt pain signals by stimulating faster, larger nerves: - Answer-Gate theory Physiological effects of massage are: - Answer-Effects that occur in the body The increase in serotonin production stimulated by massage is linked to a DECREASE in symptoms of depression and: - Answer-Stress Mechanical effects from massage occur from: - Answer-The direct manipulation of the client's tissue by the therapist's hands Massage demonstrates positive effects on some reflexes of the body that help support homeostasis. A reflex is best defined as: - Answer-An involuntary response to a stimulus By inducing this type of nervous system response, massage promotes relaxation. - Answer-Parasympathetic Which of the following is an effect of massage on the respiratory system? - Answer- Slows respiration rate Massage has been shown to DECREASE this type of brain wave, thus stimulating greater relaxation: - Answer-Beta A physiological effect of massage that supports stress management is: - Answer- Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system response

Massage stimulates digestion because of the activation of which branch of the autonomic nervous system? - Answer-Parasympathetic nervous system Avid athletes seek massage as part of their training regimen because of its effectiveness in reducing muscle: - Answer-Fatigue This elongated stroke glides across the client's skin with minimal drag, warming the tissues and promoting relaxation: - Answer-Effleurage Massage has been shown to stimulate more rapid and elaborate development of this part of the brain, which is related to memory: - Answer-Hippocampus An example of a somatic reflex is: - Answer-The stretch reflex Combined effects of massage refer to: - Answer-Effects that occur because two or more therapies are used together (e.g., massage and a hot pack) Primary effects from massage are: - Answer-The first effects to occur in the tissue A common psychological side effect of chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia or myofascial pain syndrome is some level of: - Answer-Depression Physical changes that improve the health of soft tissues in the body are referred to as: - Answer-Structural effects Massage increases available amounts of "feel-good" chemicals in the body such as dopamine, oxytocin, and: - Answer-Serotonin Massage techniques stimulate sebaceous gland activity. This is a: - Answer-Mechanical effect With the improved quality of sleep that massage provides, production of this chemical, which reduces pain in the body, is increased: - Answer-Somatostatin A friction stroke compresses and forcibly broadens muscle fibers by breaking adhesive bonds between fibers. This is an example of: - Answer-A mechanical effect The increase in delta wave activity in the brain, which is promoted by massage, is linked to enhanced: - Answer-Relaxation and sleep Along with a boost in mood, increased levels of dopamine can also positively affect a person's: - Answer-Concentration Massage can help reduce feelings of anxiety commonly associated with hyperstimulation of this branch of the autonomic nervous system: - Answer-Sympathetic

Anxiety is defined as: - Answer-Fear or nervousness about what might happen Outcomes of massage sessions experienced mentally and emotionally by clients are an example of: - Answer-Psychological effects Reflexive effects from massage occur from: - Answer-An involuntary response of the nervous system The movement of the therapist's hands over the skin desquamates dead skin cells. This is a physiological effect of massage on the: - Answer-Integumentary system Substance P is a neuropeptide that relates sensory information to the brain associated with: - Answer-Pain Which of the following benefits directly correlates to the release of muscle tension that massage provides? - Answer-Increased range of motion in joints In a study, 19 women diagnosed with anorexia nervosa were given standard treatment and massage, or just standard treatment. The massage group had lower cortisol levels and reported less stress, anxiety, and body dissastisfaction than the standard treatment-only group. Based on this study, massage is: - Answer-Indicated for people with anorexia nervosa Massage research demonstrates that clients experience increased levels of this chemical after a massage session. This chemical is most often related to maternal behavior, adult bonding, and feelings of affection. It is: - Answer-Oxytocin Massage encourages the coordination or synchronization of the body's rhythms. This reflexive effect is known as: - Answer-Entrainment An "effect" in massage is best described as: - Answer-The result or consequence of an action One somatic reflex that can be manipulated by massage application methods is: - Answer-The tendon reflex Aside from the positive physiological effects of massage, hospice patients and others with chronic illness benefit emotionally from the compassionate application of: - Answer- Touch This type of massage stroke stops the flow of blood, building temporary pressure that, when released, results in stronger circulation and warming of soft tissues: - Answer- Compression One way massage might decrease sensations of pain in the hamstring is by: - Answer- Reducing muscle spasms that splint and guard an injury

Massage practitioners should use caution when massaging the medial thigh of a pregnant client because: - Answer-The iliac, great saphenous, and femoral veins are more prone to develop blood clots during pregnancy If a client is receiving treatment for cancer and has had surgery to remove a tumor, he or she: - Answer-Is cleared to receive massage with a physician's release, but the recent surgery site is a local contraindication If arteries are blocked for too long by a massage stroke: - Answer-The delivery of oxygen distal to the blockage site is delayed A structure that requires caution in the anterior triangle of the neck is the: - Answer- Internal jugular vein If the client has a significant fever, vomiting, or an active cold where symptoms have been present less than five days, he or she is: - Answer-Contraindicated for massage In the lower extremity, lymph nodes are superficial and might be damaged in the: - Answer-Femoral triangle and popliteal region These veins are common sites of varicosities and require caution when working in the lower extremities: - Answer-Great and small saphenous veins A client with chronic hepatitis: - Answer-Must obtain a physician's release before he/she can receive massage In endangerment areas, heavy massage pressure over veins can: - Answer-Damage the veins' one-way valves A structure that requires caution in the anterior triangle of the neck is the: - Answer- Trachea A client with pinkeye is: - Answer-Contraindicated for massage The collection of nerves that innervates the upper extremity is the: - Answer-Brachial plexus A condition that affects only one area of the body but allows massage to other areas is called: - Answer-A local contraindication A client with a sleep disorder: - Answer-Is indicated for massage If the practitioner encounters an unfamiliar medication on a client's health form, he or she should: - Answer-Look up the medication in a drug reference book

Deep pressure in the gluteal region can cause pain or irritation to the: - Answer-Sciatic nerve Clients with rheumatoid arthritis may experience flare-ups if: - Answer-Hot hydrotherapy is used during a session Acute rheumatoid arthritis: - Answer-Is contraindicated for massage If a healthy pregnant client arrives for her massage with mild low-back pain and foot pain, the practitioner should: - Answer-Proceed with massage; these are not symptoms that cause concern The trachea, mandible, and sternocleidomastoid muscles on each side of the neck define the: - Answer-Anterior triangle endangerment areas If a client is taking antidiabetic medications, the practitioner should be aware that: - Answer-Massage increases the use of glucose and insulin in the body, which could lead to adverse reactions Antianginal medications may cause: - Answer-Low blood pressure and dizziness at the end of the massage Deep compression of a nerve by a massage stroke can: - Answer-Cause pain, numbness, tingling, and discomfort Chronic neuropathy is: - Answer-A local contraindication A structure that requires caution in the posterior triangle of the neck is the: - Answer- Brachial plexus/External jugular vein Massage positions for pregnant clients in the first trimester include: - Answer-Supine, prone, side-lying, and semi-reclined If a client reports pain, numbness, or tingling when a massage stroke is applied to a region, the practitioner: - Answer-Should immediately lighten the pressure to prevent irritation to superficial nerves The collection of nerves that might be damaged if too much pressure is applied in the posterior region of the neck or in the upper extremity is the: - Answer-Brachial plexus A client with lice: - Answer-Is contraindicated for massage An area of the body where delicate structures like nerves, blood vessels, bony prominences, organs, and lymph nodes are more superficial than in other areas is referred to as: - Answer-An endangerment area

If a client is seeking massage for relaxation but presents with a swollen knee from a skiing accident, the practitioner would: - Answer-Provide massage to appropriate areas of the body but avoid the knee and the area distal to the swelling The axilla area is defined as the: - Answer-Armpit area When a lymph node is enlarged because the body is fighting an infection, a practitioner should: - Answer-Avoid placing any pressure on the node A client with a common cold who seeks massage five days after symptoms presented themselves: - Answer-Is no longer contagious and can receive massage A structure that requires caution in the anterior triangle of the neck is the:*** - Answer- Carotid artery A varicose vein might be caused when: - Answer-Heavy pressure is applied to veins in endangerment areas If a healthy pregnant client arrives for her session complaining of back pain and abdominal cramps, the practitioner should: - Answer-Refer the client to her physician immediately because a serious underlying condition may exist; massage is contraindicated Osteoporosis contraindicates techniques that: - Answer-Place undue pressure on bones like the floating ribs Chemical headaches are triggered by chemical imbalances in the body and may resemble tension headaches. They: - Answer-Are an absolute contraindication Endangerment areas are: - Answer-Regions of the body where delicate structures are superficial and may be damaged by techniques applied too forcefully Anticoagulant medications may cause: - Answer-The client to bruise more easily in response to massage One adaptive measure a practitioner might make to ensure a client's safety during a massage session is: - Answer-The massage is shortened to reduce the load on the client's body A client on an over-the-counter analgesic should: - Answer-Not receive deep massage work Any condition that makes the application of massage unadvised or potentially dangerous to the health of a client is: - Answer-A contraindication

Damage or too much pressure to this nerve can cause numbness, pain, or tingling in the little finger. This nerve is the: - Answer-Ulnar nerve The styloid process of the temporal bone is tender to even moderate pressure. It should be avoided when the practitioner is working the: - Answer-Neck and lateral portions of the face Clients with fibromyalgia: - Answer-May experience flare-ups if techniques are too deep or muscles are overstretched A structure that requires caution in the femoral triangle is/are the: - Answer-Inguinal lymph nodes A physician's release is defined as: - Answer-A document from a physician that states the physician believes massage will not harm the client A local contraindication is defined as: - Answer-A condition that affects only one area of the body A secondary effect of a medication or therapy that goes beyond the desired effect, or causes unwanted responses in addition to the therapeutic effect, is a(n): - Answer-Side effect If you block an artery with a massage stroke in the anterior region of the client's neck, it can lead to feelings of: - Answer-Discomfort, panic, or loss of consciousness If you feel a strong pulse while doing abdominal work, change the position of your hands to avoid disrupting circulation because you may be placing too much pressure on the: - Answer-Abdominal aorta or inferior vena cava A client reports she has a slight fever with sinus headache pain and pressure around the eyes, cheeks, and forehead. This is: - Answer-An absolute contraindication A client with systemic, acute gout: - Answer-Is contraindicated for massage If a client has a rash on her lower leg, this is an example of a(n): - Answer-Local contraindication If a client takes lithium, it is important to avoid: - Answer-Scalp massage, as lithium causes hair shafts to weaken and thins the hair With the client in the prone position, striking techniques like tapotement can damage the: - Answer-Kidneys A client with mild depression: - Answer-Is indicated for massage

This written document should be completed any time anyone at a business is injured in an accident, causes injury to another, or causes property damage: - Answer-Accident report Most face rests are adjustable to allow for optimal range of motion in the client's neck in this movement: - Answer-Flexion One way to ensure client safety is to: - Answer-Stay up to date with CPR and first aid Look up all unknowns related to the client's health in reference books Bathrooms should include these items for clients in wheelchairs: - Answer-Handrails What is the correct use of a blanket for client comfort and cleanliness? - Answer-Place a machine washable blanket on top of top drape Which type of environment would provide the most security for female practitioners concerned about safety when working with unfamiliar male clients? - Answer-Working in a clinic with other practitioners Check the fire extinguisher and smoke detectors: - Answer-Monthly Ingredients practitioners will want to avoid when they purchase a massage lubricant include: - Answer-Petroleum, dyes, and synthetic fragrance When assessing the safety of the facility, be sure that: - Answer-There is good lighting in parking lots and common areas The parking lot pavement is smooth and even Wool or fleece table warming pads: - Answer-Provide extra softness and warmth on the massage table When assessing the safety of the facility be sure that the: - Answer-Bathrooms and doorways are wheelchair accessible Firm table padding is often preferred by therapists who offer: - Answer-Deep tissue techniques because the client doesn't drop away from the stroke One important factor in choosing a massage lubricant is: - Answer-The types of techniques you use and the degree of slip offered by the lubricant This type of list is an important safety reference that can make a difference in a crisis situation: - Answer-Emergency phone numbers Between clients, you should: - Answer-Open windows and doors and circulate the air with a fan to improve ventilation

Professional massage chairs used by massage practitioners: - Answer-Are used for on- site massage in offices or at sporting events Bolsters are: - Answer-specialized pillows used for client support that come in a variety of shapes and sizes All of the following represent a tripping hazard for the client EXCEPT: - Answer- Carpeted floors If a client reports discomfort in her low back when lying supine, the practitioner can offer her a bolster under which part of her body? - Answer-Knees A practitioner can minimize the fire risk in his professional environment by making sure these items are correctly placed and regularly tested: - Answer-Smoke detectors When assessing the safety of the facility be sure that: - Answer-All common areas are free of area rugs Which is the most appropriate lubricant application for deep tissue massage? - Answer- Moderate amount of massage cream A place where conditions that may cause injury have been eliminated is considered a(n): - Answer-Safe environment When planning the safety of a massage practice: - Answer-At least one fire extinguisher should be in plain view This essential item of massage equipment supports the client in a reclining position: - Answer-Massage table When you purchase sheets for your massage practice, an important consideration is that: - Answer-They are thick enough to provide sufficient coverage They are small enough not to touch the ground during sessions A well-planned treatment room for a business focusing on relaxation and stress management would most likely have: - Answer-Soothing color combinations and images of natural beauty A well-planned treatment room for a business focusing on clinical massage would most likely have: - Answer-Neutral colors, medical charts, and anatomical models Because client odors, such as heavy perfume or cigarette smoke, can linger in the massage room after treatment, the use of this practice is important between sessions: - Answer-Ventilation of the treatment room

This written document is completed whenever an unusual event occurs that creates an unsafe environment or distress for a client, practitioner, or business owner: - Answer-An incident report Choose this type of face cradle so that you can position the client's head and neck properly: - Answer-Adjustable All of the following safety considerations apply especially to clients with mobility issues EXCEPT: - Answer-Smoke detectors In order to avoid damage, and to prolong the life of the vinyl covering on a massage table: - Answer-Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or excessive temperatures This item should be readily available in the treatment room for any minor injuries that may occur during the session: - Answer-First aid kit During a health intake, to ensure the client's safety, it is very important to ask clients: - Answer-About allergies to nuts or other substances that might be included in lubricants If a client is covered in a thick lubricant: - Answer-It is difficult for the practitioner to work with any depth during the session In order to assure that the massage lubricant is readily available: - Answer-Use a lotion holster, worn around the waist If a practitioner accidentally applies too much lubrication: - Answer-Remove the excess with a hand towel When choosing images for a treatment room and the application of massage to clients, the best choices are: - Answer-Appropriate images for the type of work you do When storing massage linens, a massage practitioner should: - Answer-Wash them in hot water with detergent, dry with heat, and store in a closed container. Clients with heavy body hair may prefer a massage lubricant that is: - Answer-Made of oil to prevent body hair from matting painfully How can a practitioner best protect himself from legal ramifications if a client is injured on his premises? - Answer-Be sure to have adequate insurance from a professional association or reliable insurance company The main consideration in purchasing a massage chair, in terms of client comfort and safety, is: - Answer-How sturdy and stable the chair is

How can a practitioner best adapt his setup to accommodate larger-framed clients? - Answer-Purchase side extensions for the massage table Which of the following best describes the proper placement of bolsters? - Answer-Place the bolster underneath the bottom sheet or inside a washable cover This type of document is written whenever an unusual event occurs that results in distress or an unsafe environment to a client, practitioner, or business owner: - Answer- Incident report Your height as a practitioner, the size of the client, and the type of massage techniques you use will influence: - Answer-The height of the massage table The bolts on massage table legs should be: - Answer-Checked and tightened before and after each session Fire extinguishers and smoke detectors should be checked to ensure they are in good working order: - Answer-One time a month When planning undressing and dressing spaces in a treatment room, the best choice is to: - Answer-Provide a screened-off area in the treatment room to enhance a sense of privacy When choosing lighting for a treatment room and the application of massage to clients: - Answer-Candles should always be avoided as a safety hazard Which of the following is NOT an acceptable lubricant for use in massage? - Answer- Peanut oil Which of the following statements best describes the proper use of bolsters? - Answer- Place the bolster underneath the bottom sheet or inside a washable cover Because some prospective clients still consider massage as a cover for prostitution, it is very important to conduct this process before booking each client: - Answer-Client screening An essential safety tool in every massage practice is: - Answer-A reference library with a medical dictionary, drug reference, and pathology reference All of the following components of the massage table could present a safety hazard for the client EXCEPT: - Answer-The upholstery In disease transmission, indirect contact means: - Answer-The infected person transfers a pathogen to a fomite Parasitic animals of most concern to massage practitioners include: - Answer-Lice

"Staph" infections can: - Answer-Pass from the practitioner to the client when the practitioner touches his/her own hair or nose and then touches the client An indirect object capable of transmitting pathogens, such as a lotion bottle or door handle, is known as a: - Answer-Fomite Linens soiled with blood or body fluids: - Answer-Are laundered separately from other linens When cleaning up blood or bodily fluid on hard surfaces: - Answer-A 10% bleach solution is used In disease transmission, vector transmission means: - Answer-A pathogen is transferred via an insect or animal Standards of professional hygiene include: - Answer-Showering daily and washing the hair before each shift Avoiding the use of scented body care products on days when you have sessions Practitioners who perspire heavily while giving massage should: - Answer-Wear sweatbands on the forehead and wrist to prevent droplets of sweat from getting on the client Use gloves if: - Answer-The client has broken skin such as a scratch, cut, or blemish The practitioner has hangnails or cuts on the hands If the bolster is wrapped in a pillowcase and placed directly under the client's legs during a session: - Answer-The pillowcase on the bolster should be changed between clients This type of disease is passed down from a person's parents and is not contagious: - Answer-Genetic When the immune system attacks the body causing damage to tissue, the abnormal growth of an organ, or changes in organ function, it is called: - Answer-An autoimmune disease If blood or bodily fluids are present, a practitioner would clean up with: - Answer- Quaternary ammonium compounds Floors should be vacuumed, swept, or mopped: - Answer-Daily In disease transmission, vehicle transmission means: - Answer-A pathogen is transferred via water or food

Components of standard precautions include: - Answer-Properly cleaning linen soiled with blood or bodily fluid Properly cleaning surfaces contaminated with blood or bodily fluid The correct use of gloves Clean linens should be: - Answer-Stored in a closed cabinet until used Which of the following types of jewelry can the practitioner keep on during a massage? - Answer-Small earrings When handling cleaning products: - Answer-Open the windows and run ceiling fans to increase ventilation When normal cells mutate and begin to replicate uncontrollably, it is called: - Answer- Cancer Which of the following is NOT a sanitary restroom item? - Answer-Bar soap If a client received a massage yesterday and calls to inform you that she was just diagnosed with a lice infection, you should: - Answer-Cancel all appointments until the facility can be deep cleaned If you have cuts or hangnails on your hands, practice: - Answer-Standard precautions A client with HIV/AIDS is most at risk from: - Answer-Infection by a practitioner who does not practice standard precautions These items are coverings for individual fingers that practitioners can use if there is a cut on a single finger: - Answer-Finger cots The proper sanitation of linens and equipment in a massage environment is important because: - Answer-Some viruses, like the herpes simplex virus, can linger on surfaces and infect a person via indirect contact To correctly sanitize and store linens: - Answer-Wash them in hot water with detergent, dry them with heat, and store them in a closed container A bathrobe worn by a client: - Answer-Should be laundered between clients Ringworm is: - Answer-Highly contagious After having a meal in the break room, a practitioner on break would: - Answer-Wash his/her hands and decontaminate them with an alcohol-based gel Lice do what? - Answer-Such the blood of the host and cause itching