Massage & Bodywork Licensing Practice Examination (MBLEx)

Fever and infectious diseases are significant contraindications for massage therapy because they can pose risks to both the client and the therapist. When a client has a fever, it typically indicates an underlying illness or infection that could be contagious. Massage therapy involves close physical contact, which could facilitate the spread of pathogens. Additionally, providing massage during a fever can exacerbate symptoms and place extra stress on the body’s immune system, potentially leading to complications or a prolonged recovery.

In contrast, while other options may suggest certain conditions that warrant caution or modified treatments, they do not present the same level of immediate risk to health and safety as fever and infectious diseases. For instance, clients with high blood pressure, muscle cramps, excessive fatigue, or dehydration may require adjustments to the massage approach rather than complete avoidance of treatment. Dietary restrictions and allergies, while important to consider for overall wellness, do not typically serve as direct contraindications to receiving massage therapy in the same manner as infectious conditions.