Massage Therapy BLEX Practice Test Summary

Key Topics Covered

Code of Ethics

• Professionalism:
  • Refraining from any mind-altering substances before/during massage
  • Conducting communications with professionals in a friendly and professional manner
• Scope of Practice & Appropriate Techniques:
  • Conscious intent and judgment regarding massage services

Anatomy & Physiology

• Muscle and Joint Functions:

  • Tibial band contracture: Thickening of the IT band
  • Pectoralis minor: Inserts on coracoid process and influences scapula tilt
  • Flexion of the thigh involves multiple muscles including rectus femoris
  • Lateral rotation of the glenohumeral joint involves the deltoid posterior and others
  • Piriformis syndrome: Compression of the sciatic nerve, a condition of the PNS

• Body Systems:

  • Lymphatic system: Regulates tissue fluids, combats disease
  • Endocrine system: Contains glands such as pituitary, adrenal, and thyroid
  • Nervous system: Detects sensations, controls movement

Medical Conditions & Pathologies

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS):
  • Persistent fatigue condition
• Fibromyalgia (FM):
  • Rheumatic condition with tender points lasting over three months
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):
  • Gastrointestinal motility disorder linked to stress, anxiety
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS):
  • Demyelination of nerves, a CNS condition
• Degenerative Disc Disease:
  • Annular fibers degeneration of intervertebral disc

Assessment & Techniques

• Insurance & Liability:
  • Malpractice insurance covers client lawsuits
• Palpation Techniques:
  • Assessing texture, adhesions, and edema
• ROM Testing:
  • Active resisted ROM for adhesion pinpointing

Musculoskeletal and Soft Tissue

• Joints and Movements:
  • Amphiarthrotic joints in the intervertebral bodies and pubic synthesis
  • Atlanto-occipital joint allows flexion, extension, lateral flexion
• Tissues and Techniques:
  • Petrissage: Rhythmic compressions and kneading of tissues
  • Passive stretching requires warming tissues first

Emergency Response

• First Aid CPR (ABC):
  • Airway, Breathing, Circulation protocol