Massage Therapy NC II flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

SOAP note format

A documentation structure with Subjective (client report), Objective (measurable findings), Assessment (working hypothesis), and Plan (techniques and follow-up) sections.

Informed consent

The client's voluntary agreement to treatment after being told the techniques, expected sensations, risks, alternatives, and right to refuse or stop at any time.

Active versus passive ROM

Active range of motion is performed by the client's own effort; passive range of motion is performed by the therapist and reveals tissue end-feel and joint restriction.

Absolute contraindication

A condition that makes massage unsafe and cancels the session, such as fever, suspected deep vein thrombosis, acute fracture, or contagious skin infection.

Endomysium

The thin connective tissue sheath that surrounds each individual muscle fiber; it lies within the perimysium, which wraps bundles of fibers called fascicles.

Lymphatic system function

Returns excess interstitial fluid and proteins to the bloodstream through lymph capillaries, vessels, nodes, and ducts; it has no central pump and relies on movement and breathing.

Standard precautions

Infection control practices applied to all clients regardless of diagnosis, including hand hygiene, gloves for body fluids, and safe handling of contaminated items.

Hand hygiene duration

Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using alcohol-based sanitizer when hands are not visibly soiled, is the primary infection control measure.

Therapist body mechanics

Using leg and weight-shift power, a table at mid-thigh height, relaxed shoulders, and micro-breaks to reduce cumulative strain during massage.

Table height rule

Set the massage table near the therapist's mid-thigh or hip crease; too high causes shoulder elevation, too low causes spinal flexion and back strain.

Linen change rule

Sheets, face-cradle covers, and any fabric touching the client are replaced after every session; single-use items are discarded, never reused between clients.

Effleurage

A Swedish gliding stroke applied with the palm or forearm to spread lubricant, warm tissue, link strokes, and encourage venous and lymphatic return toward the heart.

Petrissage

A Swedish group of kneading techniques including kneading, wringing, skin rolling, and picking up, applied to superficial muscle and subcutaneous tissue, generally toward the heart.

Tapotement

Swedish percussion using hacking, cupping, tapping, or clapping with relaxed wrists for short periods, avoiding bony prominences and the kidney region.

Draping principle

Only the region being treated is exposed; sheets are secured at all times and the client's comfort and consent govern every adjustment.

Trigger point

A hyperirritable spot within a taut muscle band that refers pain when compressed; treated with sustained pressure within the client's tolerance.

Cross-fiber friction

Deep friction applied perpendicular to muscle fiber direction to address adhesions and scar tissue; it can cause soreness, so pressure and duration stay conservative.

Reciprocal inhibition

The neurological principle that contracting or treating a muscle's antagonist reduces tone in the tight muscle, guiding treatment selection.

Pregnancy positioning

After the first trimester, sidelying with pillows supporting the abdomen and between the knees replaces prone positioning; deep abdominal pressure is avoided.

Oncology massage cautions

Coordinate with the treating team and avoid tumor sites, irradiated tissue, and device areas; lymphedema management requires specialized training beyond general massage.

Neuropathy precautions

In clients with sensation loss, such as diabetic neuropathy, avoid aggressive pressure on insensate areas and inspect skin for bruising or injury.

Post-massage soreness

Mild soreness lasting 24-48 hours after deep work is common; clients should hydrate, use heat or cold as advised, and report unusual or worsening symptoms.

Record correction method

Errors in clinical records are corrected with a single line through the entry, the therapist's initials and date, and the correct information written alongside.

Adverse event documentation

Record the symptom, time noticed, action taken, and client response; escalate serious events to a supervisor and inform the client.

Scope of practice

Massage therapists do not diagnose, prescribe, or treat disease; findings are documented as observations and referred to licensed health professionals when indicated.

Confidentiality exceptions

Client information may be disclosed with written consent, when legally required, or when there is imminent risk of serious harm to the client or others.

Therapeutic boundaries

Clear limits on the professional relationship: no sexual contact, no exploitative dual relationships, and no treatment while the therapist is impaired.

Massage Therapy NC II

A Philippine TESDA qualification defining competencies in consultation, assessment, massage preparation, Swedish and therapeutic techniques, post-treatment care, and safety.

TESDA

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, the Philippine government agency that sets competency standards and assessment for qualifications such as Massage Therapy NC II.

Competency assessment

Evaluation of a candidate against NC II performance criteria through demonstration, oral questioning, and portfolio evidence, leading to certification when all units are met.

Continuing professional development

Ongoing learning such as advanced modalities, first aid and CPR, and business skills that maintains competence and supports career growth in massage therapy.

Business permit requirement

Operating a massage establishment typically requires a local business permit, a sanitation permit, and compliance with occupational health and safety regulations.