College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

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What does the sagittal plane divide the body into?

  1. Top and bottom halves

  2. Left and right positions

  3. Front and back positions

  4. Quadrants

The correct answer is: Left and right positions

The sagittal plane is a key anatomical reference that divides the body into left and right segments. This plane runs vertically from front to back and can be aligned centrally (mid-sagittal) or offset to one side (parasagittal). When assessing the body along this plane, any movements or observations made will relate specifically to how structures are positioned or how they function in relation to this left-right division. Understanding body planes is essential for massage therapists, as it aids in the comprehension of movement, muscle group positioning, and the identification of anatomical landmarks. Being familiar with the sagittal plane allows therapists to communicate effectively regarding treatments and individual conditions based on the specific side of the body being addressed. The other options refer to different planes or sections of the body. The top and bottom halves pertain to the transverse plane, while front and back views relate to the frontal (or coronal) plane. Quadrants typically refer to divisions of the body often used in medical examinations and not tied directly to the sagittal plane's function of dividing left from right.