DHA Massage Therapist exam questions

6 worked Massage Therapist practice questions

Original exam-style questions from the bank, spread across the blueprint domains. They are not real or recalled exam questions. Try each one, then open the answer for the rationale and reference. None of them appear in the free mock exam, so reading them will not spoil it.

1. Question 1 · Anatomy and Kinesiology

   Why should deep, sustained pressure be avoided in the femoral triangle of the upper inner thigh?

   1. AIt contains only thick, deep muscle bellies
   2. BIt holds the femoral artery, vein and nerve
   3. CIt overlies the sciatic nerve directly
   4. DIt contains the kidneys
   Show answer and explanation

   Correct answer: B. It holds the femoral artery, vein and nerve

   The femoral triangle holds the femoral nerve, artery and vein close to the surface, making it an endangerment site. The sciatic nerve runs in the back of the thigh, not the front.

   Reference: Fritz, Mosby's Fundamentals of Therapeutic Massage, 7th ed.

2. Question 2 · Client Assessment and Treatment Planning

   In a SOAP note, where does the therapist record palpation findings and range-of-motion results?

   1. ASubjective
   2. BAssessment
   3. CObjective
   4. DPlan
   Show answer and explanation

   Correct answer: C. Objective

   The Objective section records what the therapist observes and measures, such as posture, palpation and ROM. The Subjective section records what the client reports.

   Reference: Fritz, Mosby's Fundamentals of Therapeutic Massage, 7th ed.

3. Question 3 · Contraindications, Cautions and Red Flags

   A client returned from a long-haul flight and has a swollen, warm, tender calf on one side. What should the therapist do?

   1. AMassage the calf gently to reduce swelling
   2. BApply heat and stretch the calf
   3. CWork only on the opposite leg
   4. DDo not massage; advise urgent medical review
   Show answer and explanation

   Correct answer: D. Do not massage; advise urgent medical review

   These are signs of possible deep vein thrombosis, and massage could dislodge a clot; urgent medical assessment is needed. Gentle massage of the calf is unsafe until DVT is excluded.

   Reference: Werner, A Massage Therapist's Guide to Pathology, 7th ed.

4. Question 4 · Contraindications, Cautions and Red Flags

   A client taking warfarin asks for a deep tissue massage. What is the safest approach?

   1. AProceed with deep tissue as requested
   2. BLighter pressure and a check for bruising
   3. CUse only vigorous tapotement strokes
   4. DRefuse all massage for this client
   Show answer and explanation

   Correct answer: B. Lighter pressure and a check for bruising

   Anticoagulants increase the risk of bruising and bleeding, so pressure is reduced and deep or vigorous techniques are avoided. Refusing all massage is unnecessary when adapted, gentle work is safe.

   Reference: Werner, A Massage Therapist's Guide to Pathology, 7th ed.

5. Question 5 · Contraindications, Cautions and Red Flags

   A client receiving radiotherapy for breast cancer has red, tender skin over the treated area. How should the therapist adapt the session?

   1. AAvoid the irradiated skin, work gently
   2. BMassage the treated skin firmly
   3. CApply heat packs to the treated area
   4. DUse deep friction around the scar
   Show answer and explanation

   Correct answer: A. Avoid the irradiated skin, work gently

   Irradiated skin is fragile and should not be massaged, lotioned or heated; gentle work elsewhere can support comfort. Massage is supportive care and does not treat the cancer itself.

   Reference: Walton T, Medical Conditions and Massage Therapy: A Decision Tree Approach

6. Question 6 · Contraindications, Cautions and Red Flags

   A client had a total hip replacement through a posterior approach 4 weeks ago. Which positioning should be avoided?

   1. ALying supine with a pillow under the knees
   2. BHip flexion past 90 degrees with adduction
   3. CSide-lying with pillows between the knees
   4. DGentle work on the shoulders while seated
   Show answer and explanation

   Correct answer: B. Hip flexion past 90 degrees with adduction

   After a posterior approach, combined hip flexion beyond 90 degrees, adduction and internal rotation risk dislocation. Side-lying with pillows between the knees keeps the hip in a safe position.

   Reference: AAOS OrthoInfo: Total Hip Replacement Exercise Guide