Part 2 — Answer key

Compare your answers after you have finished Part 1.

1. You start a session and want a stroke that both warms tissue and lets you feel for areas of tension before doing deeper work. Which technique best matches that goal?
   Effleurage
2. New one-sided calf swelling with warmth and redness is only a local contraindication, so it is safe to continue the session by massaging other areas.
   False
3. For general venous return support on an extremity, which direction is typically used for long gliding strokes?
   Toward the heart
4. During a biceps curl, what generally moves toward what when the muscle shortens?
   Insertion moves toward origin
5. When the elbow is flexing against resistance, which muscle most directly acts as the antagonist to the biceps brachii?
   Triceps brachii
6. A runner asks for help with tight calves that limit pushing off the ground. Which movement at the ankle is primarily involved?
   Plantarflexion
7. A client says, “My glutes are where I hold stress, can you work there?” What is the best next step?
   Explain the area, obtain clear consent, and ensure secure draping
8. A client arrives with a fever and body aches that started this morning. They want a massage to “sweat it out.” What is the safest choice?
   Reschedule and recommend medical follow-up if symptoms worsen
9. You want to mobilize a guarded, tight upper trapezius without targeting a specific tendon attachment. Which technique best fits that intent?
   Petrissage
10. During neck work, a client reports tingling that shoots into the thumb and index finger. What is the most appropriate immediate response?
    Switch to slower, lighter contact and reassess symptoms
11. A client takes a prescription blood thinner and bruises easily. They request deep work for “scar tissue” in the calf. What is the best modification?
    Use lighter pressure, avoid aggressive friction, and monitor for bruising
12. Tapotement is appropriate directly over the kidneys as long as you keep the pressure light and the client enjoys it.
    False
13. A swimmer wants to strengthen the motion of pulling the arm down from overhead during a stroke. Which combined shoulder actions best describe that movement?
    Shoulder adduction and extension
14. A client has chronic lateral elbow pain and you suspect tendon attachment irritation with possible adhesions. Which technique is most specifically matched to that treatment goal?
    Friction
15. A slow rhythm with steady, predictable pressure generally supports a parasympathetic relaxation response.
    True
16. A client sprained their ankle two days ago and has visible swelling and heat. They ask you to “massage the swelling out.” What is the best approach today?
    Avoid the injured area, and if appropriate work elsewhere while keeping techniques gentle
17. If a client does not verbally object, it is acceptable to expose and begin working a new area that was not discussed, as long as the drape is still present somewhere on the body.
    False
18. A client develops radiating pain down the arm during scalene work and says it feels “electric.” What is the best immediate action?
    Stop the technique, decrease pressure, and reassess, referring if symptoms persist
19. Faster, percussive techniques are generally more likely to stimulate the nervous system than slow, steady gliding strokes.
    True
20. A client with rheumatoid arthritis arrives during an acute flare with hot, swollen finger joints and high pain levels. What is the best plan for the hands today?
    Avoid working the inflamed joints, and use gentle, comfort-focused techniques elsewhere
21. Mid-session, a client suddenly becomes pale, sweaty, and lightheaded, saying they feel like they might faint. What is the best immediate action?
    Stop the massage, help them into a safe position, and assess before deciding on emergency steps