Anatomy and Physiology of Massage Therapy

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from anatomy and physiology relevant to massage therapy, including pain types, body systems, and ethical practices for therapists.

Neuropathic Pain

Nerve damage causing pain.

Paresthesia

Abnormal sensations such as tingling or prickling.

Reciprocal Inhibition

Stopping the action of one muscle to allow another to work.

Gate Control Theory

A theory suggesting that pain is controlled by neural gates in the spinal cord.

Chronic Pain

Pain lasting 30 days or more, often associated with tissue damage.

Myofibrils

Contractile units within muscle fibers made up of actin and myosin.

Skeletal System

System of bones that supports the body and facilitates movement.

Contractile Tissue

Tissue that can contract and produce movement, including skeletal, smooth, and cardiac muscles.

Synovial Joint

A freely movable joint characterized by a joint capsule and synovial fluid.

HIPAA

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, protecting patient privacy.

Dual Relationships

Situations where the therapist has more than one role with the client, which must be managed carefully.

Afferent Nerves

Nerves that carry sensory signals to the brain.

Efferent Nerves

Nerves that transmit motor signals from the brain to the muscles.

Leukocytes

White blood cells involved in immune responses.

Acute Pain

Sudden, sharp pain that typically indicates injury.

Chronic Pain

Pain that persists over time, often beyond the normal healing process.

Reflex Arc

The nerve pathway involved in a reflex action.

Musculoskeletal Disorders

Conditions affecting muscles, bones, and joints.

Emotional Burnout

A state of emotional exhaustion, often affecting therapists due to prolonged stress.

Informed Consent

A client's agreement to treatment after being fully informed of its risks and benefits.

Client Autonomy

The right of clients to make decisions about their own treatment.