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

What term is used for the application that uses a mixture of mustard and water to create a warming sensation on the skin?

1. Paraffin treatment

2. Mustard plaster

3. Heat wrap

4. Cold pack

The correct answer is: Mustard plaster

The proper term for the application that utilizes a mixture of mustard and water to produce a warming sensation on the skin is mustard plaster. Mustard plasters have been employed historically in various therapeutic applications, primarily because of the stimulating properties of mustard oil. When applied to the skin, they induce a sensation of warmth and can promote circulation in the area, which can be beneficial in alleviating muscle soreness or tension. In contrast, paraffin treatments typically involve using heated paraffin wax for its soothing and moisturizing properties, often for conditions like arthritis or joint pain, but they do not have the same warming or stimulating qualities as mustard. Heat wraps generally consist of materials designed to maintain heat over a longer period, while cold packs are used to reduce swelling and numb pain, contrasting the heat-inducing properties of a mustard plaster. Therefore, mustard plaster correctly describes the mixture used to create that distinct warming effect.