Question 1

Which condition is an ABSOLUTE contraindication to massage therapy?

Accepted Answer

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is an absolute contraindication to massage in the affected limb. Massage could dislodge a thrombus (blood clot), causing a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. The therapist should refer the client to a physician immediately.

Question 2

A client has an acute (less than 72 hours old) ankle sprain. What is the recommended massage approach?

Accepted Answer

In the acute inflammatory phase (0–72 hours), the injury site should not be directly massaged as it increases inflammation and pain. Gentle lymphatic drainage proximal to the site may reduce swelling. RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is the standard first-aid approach.

Question 3

Which skin condition is a LOCAL contraindication for massage?

Accepted Answer

Open wounds, active rashes, infected areas, sunburn, and active inflammatory conditions are local contraindications — the therapist should avoid the affected area but may work elsewhere on the body. Working over these areas can spread infection or worsen the condition.

Question 4

Massage is generally contraindicated for clients with which cancer status?

Accepted Answer

Active or metastatic cancer requires physician clearance before massage. Concern exists that massage could stimulate lymph flow and potentially facilitate metastasis, though evidence is limited. Massage has benefits for cancer patients in palliative care settings but requires modified techniques and medical approval.

Question 5

A pregnant client in her first trimester requests a massage. What is the appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

First-trimester massage is generally avoided by some therapists due to higher miscarriage risk, though it is not absolutely contraindicated for low-risk pregnancies. For any pregnant client, side-lying positioning is preferred, deep abdominal work is avoided, and certain acupressure points (SP-6, BL-60, LI-4) associated with uterine stimulation are avoided.

Question 6

A client has been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the left leg. What is the appropriate massage response?

Accepted Answer

DVT is an absolute regional contraindication. Massage over a DVT can dislodge the thrombus, causing pulmonary embolism — a life-threatening emergency. The entire affected limb should be avoided. Systemic (full-body) massage may be contraindicated depending on the clinical situation.

Question 7

Massage is generally indicated (beneficial) for which of the following conditions?

Accepted Answer

Massage therapy is evidence-supported for non-specific chronic low back pain, helping reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and decrease pain perception. The other options are contraindications: acute appendicitis (surgical emergency), cellulitis (infection spread risk), and high-risk pregnancy (refer to physician).

Question 8

A client reports they are currently undergoing chemotherapy. What should the massage therapist do?

Accepted Answer

Oncology massage is a specialized area requiring physician clearance and modified techniques. Therapists must avoid IV sites, ports, radiation fields, and areas of bone metastasis. Pressure is significantly reduced, and sessions are shorter. Many cancer patients benefit from appropriately adapted massage.

Question 9

Which of the following skin conditions is a local contraindication for massage — meaning massage is safe on other areas but avoided on the affected site?

Accepted Answer

Psoriasis plaques that are open, bleeding, or weeping represent a local contraindication — the affected skin is fragile and massage could cause pain, damage, or spread. Intact, non-irritated plaques may be safely massaged. Diabetes, scoliosis, and tension headache are not local contraindications.

Question 10

A client presents with fever (101.5°F / 38.6°C). The massage therapist should:

Accepted Answer

Fever is a systemic contraindication. The elevated body temperature indicates the immune system is actively fighting an infection. Massage increases circulation and metabolic activity, which can worsen the client's condition. The session should be rescheduled until the client is fever-free.

Pathology and Contraindications Practice Questions

More MBLEx Massage Therapy Exam Topics