MBLEx Massage Therapy Exam — All Questions
3 questions
Effleurage is best described as:
- a.Gliding strokes that warm tissue and encourage venous and lymphatic return✓
- b.Rapid percussive tapping on the tissue
- c.Deep static compression held over a trigger point
- d.Rhythmic kneading and lifting of muscle tissue
Effleurage consists of smooth gliding strokes, often used to begin and end a session, spread lubricant, warm the tissue, and promote venous and lymphatic return. Percussion is tapotement, and kneading/lifting is petrissage.
A relaxing massage most directly shifts the autonomic nervous system toward:
- a.Sympathetic (fight-or-flight) dominance
- b.Complete shutdown of the nervous system
- c.Parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) dominance✓
- d.Increased heart rate and blood pressure
Soothing massage tends to promote a parasympathetic response, associated with lowered heart rate, slower breathing, and a sense of relaxation. This is one reason massage is commonly used for stress reduction.
By mechanically increasing local circulation, massage helps tissue primarily by:
- a.Permanently lengthening bone
- b.Delivering oxygen and nutrients while aiding removal of metabolic waste✓
- c.Eliminating the need for the lymphatic system
- d.Stopping all muscle contraction
Improved local circulation delivers oxygen and nutrients to tissues and supports removal of metabolic byproducts. This mechanical effect is one of the physiological benefits of soft-tissue manipulation.