March/April 2015
Technique
-
Working with the Mesentery
By Til LuchauAn instinctual sense of certainty has long been associated with our bellies. Along with instinctual certainty, the gut is associated with many other body-mind phenomena.
-
Minimizing Injuries
By Mark LiskeyMark Liskey shares tips from his experience as a massage therapist, and from a chiropractor, on how to take care of yourself, move your move, and work in a safe and balanced way.
-
The Zone Technique
I first heard about the Zone Technique on a sports podcast. Brendan Schaub, a professional mixed martial artist competing in the UFC’s heavyweight division, mentioned that he had been unable to find relief from plantar fasciitis.
-
Always On
Doug Nelson works with a client in the supine position to treat her upper trapezius muscle, utilizing techniques to move her shoulder into elevation, depression, protraction, and retraction.
-
Psychological Factors
In massage, a power differential is the authority a massage therapist is granted by a client. A large body of psychology research suggests that the relationship between the therapist and client is the single most important predictor of therapeutic outcome.
-
Bodywork and the Business of Miracles
By Cyndi DaleMiracles are a slippery slope. Our clients may want or need one, and we therefore we want one for them. But because of this, it’s extraordinarily important to be clear about the topic.
-
Where Are We Now?
By Art RiggsA few months ago, some of us old-timers were reminiscing about the good, and not-quite-so-good, old days of massage and bodywork. So I decided to gather some colleagues to formally reflect on how things were, and how they've evolved.
-
Text Neck and Desktop Neck
With so many people on their digital devices, bad forward head posture can quickly develop. Both prevention and correction rely on a basic understanding of the biomechanical nuances associated with texting and prolonged computer work.
Critical Thinking and Essentials
-
How Do You Close Your Sessions?
Ask any seasoned massage therapist and they’ll tell you the end of the hands-on part of a session is much more than simply telling the client the session is over.
-
Groin Pulls
By Whitney LoweLearn some draping and technique strategies for working with clients with groin injury or pain.
-
Set Client Expectations
The massage session does not start when you lay your hands on your client and it does not end with that final effleurage stroke. What clients experience in your office before and after getting on your table—that's what sticks with them.
-
The New Era of Education
By Whitney LoweWhile the massage profession may be slow to adopt advanced forms of online learning, the influence of online technology and its capability to improve learning though design is changing the overall educational landscape.
-
Hepatitis C
By Ruth WernerCameron is a part-time carpenter and musician living in a rural community. Now in his mid-60s, the hepatitis C he probably picked up during his time in Vietnam is seriously impacting his life.
-
Think You Know All About Marketing?
By Les SweeneyLearn about some strategies and ways to embrace cause marketing, drip marketing, seasonal marketing, and more.
-
Finding Support
As massage therapists and bodyworkers, we are used to playing a support role in people’s lives. But what about us? Who's our support system, and how can we learn to accept support to stay strong?
-
Platysma
By Christy CaelThe platysma is the most superficial muscle of the anterior neck, and extends from the mandible and fascia of the face. This muscle is one of several responsible for facial expression.
-
Massage Therapy Eases Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia can be difficult to diagnose and treat. Pain and fatigue are often misdiagnosed as other conditions, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, hypothyroidism, and more. Recent research shows alternative treatments like massage therapy may help.
-
Tips for Success
Several massage therapists share tips that have helped them along the way.
-
Licensing Responsibilities
Are you a state-licensed massage therapist? With licensing comes responsibility. It is your responsibility to be familiar with the rules and regulations adopted in your state.