The Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) is one of the two national tests that certify the massage therapist to operate in all fifty states. The exam takes 2 hours to complete and consists of 8 sections with 100 multiple-choice questions that include:
1. Anatomy and Physiology
Accounts for 12% of the exam and focuses on:
• system structure
• system function
• tissue injury and repair
• concepts of energetic anatomy
2. Kinesiology
Accounts for 11% of the exam and focuses on:
• the components and characteristics of muscles
• the concepts of muscle contractions
• proprioceptors
• locations, attachments, actions, and fiber directions of muscles
• joint structure and function
• range of motion
3. Pathology, Contraindications, Areas of Caution, Special Populations
Accounts for 13% of the exam and focuses on:
• overview of pathologies
• contraindications
• areas of caution
• special populations
• classes of medications
4. Benefits and Physiological Effects of Techniques That Manipulate Soft Tissue
Accounts for 14% of the exam and focuses on:
• identification of the physiological effects of soft tissue manipulation
• psychological aspects and benefits of touch
• benefits of soft tissue manipulation for specific client populations
• soft tissue techniques
• hot/cold applications
5. Client Assessment, Reassessment, and Treatment Planning
Accounts for 17% of the exam and focuses on:
• organization of a massage/bodywork session
• client consultation and evaluation
• visual assessment
• palpation assessment
• range of motion assessment
• clinical reasoning
6. Overview of Massage and Bodywork Modalities / Culture / History
Accounts for 5% of the exam and focuses on :
• history or massage & bodywork
• overview of the different skill sets used in contemporary massage/bodywork environments
• overview of massage/bodywork modalities
7. Ethics, Boundaries, Laws, Regulations
Accounts for 15% and focuses on:
• ethical behavior
• professional boundaries
• code of ethics violations
• the therapeutic relationship
• dual relationships
• sexual misconduct
• massage/bodywork-related laws and regulations
• the scope of practice
• professional communication
• confidentiality
• principles
8. Guidelines for Professional Practice
Accounts for the remaining 13% and focuses on:
• proper and safe use of equipment and supplies
• therapist hygiene
• sanitation and cleanliness
• safety practices
• therapist care
• draping
• business practices
• healthcare and business terminology
What is a Passing MBLEx Score?
To be considered as passing for the MBLEx exam, you must receive a score of 630. You will receive a numerical scaled score total as well as diagnostic information indicating your performance in each content area. The score reported on the diagnostic summary are provided to guide your future professional development.
How Much Does it Cost to Take the MBLEx?
Individuals wishing to take the MBLEx exam must pay $195 to register for the exam.
