Which statement is not a goal of massage?

Which statement is not a goal of massage?

• A. Increase cutaneous circulation
• B. Decrease neuromuscular excitability
• C. Increase edema
• D. Assist in removal of edema

Answer: (C)

Massage therapy works to normalize tissue function by influencing circulation, nervous system activity, and fluid movement. Increasing cutaneous circulation brings more oxygen and nutrients to tissues and helps remove waste, supporting healing. Decreasing neuromuscular excitability promotes relaxation, lowers muscle tone, and can reduce pain by modulating nerve signals and triggering a calming reflex. Assisting in removal of edema means encouraging lymphatic and venous return so excess interstitial fluid is moved away from the area, reducing swelling and improving tissue mobility. Increasing edema would oppose these therapeutic aims, since the goal is to reduce swelling, not create more. The other effects described are consistent goals of massage practice.

Massage therapy works to normalize tissue function by influencing circulation, nervous system activity, and fluid movement. Increasing cutaneous circulation brings more oxygen and nutrients to tissues and helps remove waste, supporting healing. Decreasing neuromuscular excitability promotes relaxation, lowers muscle tone, and can reduce pain by modulating nerve signals and triggering a calming reflex. Assisting in removal of edema means encouraging lymphatic and venous return so excess interstitial fluid is moved away from the area, reducing swelling and improving tissue mobility.

Increasing edema would oppose these therapeutic aims, since the goal is to reduce swelling, not create more. The other effects described are consistent goals of massage practice.