Treatments
This domain tests treatment knowledge and safe delivery: contraindications, positioning, sequencing, pressure and timing. Expect scenario questions about whether to proceed, modify or decline.
Contraindications and modifications
- Common absolute contraindications for massage: fever, contagious skin conditions, suspected deep vein thrombosis, uncontrolled hypertension, acute fractures or injuries, and some cancer treatments without physician clearance.
- Pregnancy: left lateral positioning after the first trimester, bolsters under abdomen and between knees, no prone position, no abdominal pressure, and caution with deep calf work.
- Diabetes with neuropathy: avoid hot stones and extreme temperatures.
Modalities and sequencing
- Swedish massage uses effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement and vibration; deep tissue targets specific layers with slower, sustained pressure; sports massage combines techniques around training and recovery.
- Body treatments: scrub for exfoliation, wrap for hydration, hydrotherapy for heat or cooling.
- Classic facial sequence: cleanse, analyze skin, exfoliate, steam and extract, massage, mask, moisturize, sun protection.
- Standard durations are 50, 60, 80 or 90 minutes; allow 15–30 minutes for setup and turnover.
Worked example: a client at 28 weeks of pregnancy books a 60-minute massage. Plan: complete intake, position left lateral with bolsters, avoid prone and abdominal work, keep leg pressure moderate because of clot risk, deliver 45 minutes of treatment and use 15 minutes for consultation and turnover. Document the positioning and any modifications.
Traps
Presenting "detox" as established fact, deep pressure over varicose veins, extracting without softening the skin, skipping the consultation, and using heat on clients with impaired sensation.