AMERICAN MASSAGE THERAPY
ASSOCIATION (AMTA) PRACTICE TEST
EXAM
Question 1: A client presents for a full-body massage. During the intake, they
mention a recent history of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) but state it was treated and they are currently asymptomatic. What is the most appropriate action for the massage therapist regarding this client's cardiovascular history?
Choices:
1) Proceed with a deep tissue massage to improve circulation in the a�ected limb.2) Perform a light, gentle massage, ensuring all strokes on the extremities are directed away from the heart.3) Avoid deep tissue massage, but gentle massage strokes on extremities should always be directed toward the heart to assist venous return.4) Postpone the massage inde�nitely, as any history of DVT is an absolute contraindication for massage.
Correct Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Because massage increases the risk of a blood clot being released, deep tissue massage should not be done in individuals with a history of blood clots. However, a past history of blood clots does not necessarily preclude massage. Massage strokes on extremities should always be toward the heart to assist venous return.Question 2: A client with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) seeks a full-body massage to alleviate stress and edema in their lower extremities. What is the primary
concern a massage therapist should have when considering this client for massage therapy?
Choices:
1) The risk of exacerbating the client's hypertension.2) The potential for massage to increase the body's circulation, which could further strain a failing heart.3) The possibility of dislodging a peripheral embolism due to increased blood �ow.4) The client's inability to lie �at for extended periods due to respiratory distress.
Correct Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) is considered a precaution or contraindication for body massage. It is believed that circulatory body massage increases the body's circulation. In CHF, the heart is already struggling to process its existing circulation, so increasing the circulatory load on a failing organ could be harmful. It is advised to consult with the client's medical physician for approval before proceeding with bodywork or massage.Question 3: Which of the following is a recognized physiological e�ect of massage therapy on the cardiovascular system?
Choices:
1) Increased sympathetic nervous system activity, leading to vasoconstriction.2) A signi�cant and sustained increase in systolic blood pressure.3) Reduction in heart rate and a shift towards parasympathetic nervous system dominance.4) Decreased peripheral blood �ow, particularly in the extremities.
Correct Answer: Option 3
Explanation: Massage therapy has been associated with modulation of heart rate (HR) and autonomic nervous system activity. A reduction in HR following massage is considered indicative of increased parasympathetic tone and decreased sympathetic activation. Research also shows that massage therapy can reduce psychological distress, which contributes to improved cardiovascular regulation, including reductions in blood pressure and anxiety levels.
Question 4: Which massage techniques are primarily recognized for their
mechanical e�ect on increasing local blood �ow?
Choices:
1) Gentle stretching and passive range of motion.2) Compression, gliding strokes, friction, and tapotement.3) Sustained static pressure in trigger point therapy only.4) Lymphatic drainage techniques and e�eurage with light pressure.
Correct Answer: Option 2
Explanation: Massage therapy in�uences the �ow of both blood and lymph. Massage techniques that appear to have the greatest mechanical e�ect on circulation are compression and gliding strokes. Other techniques such as friction and tapotement (percussion) will also increase local blood �ow, which is easily observed through increased heat and redness. Trigger point massage uses static pressure that increases local capillary �ow once the pressure is relieved.
Question 5: How does food primarily move through your digestive tract?
Choices:
1) By gravity 2) By wavelike muscle contractions 3) By cilia 4) By chemical absorption
Correct Answer: Option 2
Explanation: B. These contractions move food from the esophagus to the stomach, then through the intestine.