American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) Practice Test

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Which of the following actions is not an example of maintaining proper body mechanics during a massage?

  1. Arching the back for weight shift

  2. Stacking the joints

  3. Shifting weight forward for pressure

  4. Engaging the core muscles

The correct answer is: Arching the back for weight shift

Arching the back for weight shift is not an example of maintaining proper body mechanics during a massage because proper body mechanics requires keeping the spine in a neutral position to avoid strain and injury. When a therapist arches their back, it can lead to excessive tension on the ligaments and muscles of the back, resulting in discomfort or injury. In contrast, stacking the joints aligns the body in a way that distributes weight effectively, reducing strain. Shifting weight forward for pressure utilizes the body’s strength without compromising spinal position, and engaging core muscles provides stability and support, contributing to overall body mechanics. Therefore, maintaining a neutral spine is crucial for effective and safe practice in massage therapy.