Some therapists use massage tools to protect themselves from stresses during certain techniques. Such tools include items with a knob used to provide pressure on a point and mechanical thumping devices that apply percussive or wave-like compressions. Many such devices are very effective and popular with clients. Before using a massage tool on a client, […]
F. Massage Tools and Other Supplies Read More »
There are many ways to ensure the client stays warm during the massage. Therapists use heat lamps; electric table warmers; corn, rice, or flax seed packs; hydrocollator packs; or Fomentek water bottles. Heat Lamps Heat lamps hung above the treatment table with a dimmer switch allow for heat adjustment. Freestanding lamps with a flexible neck
E. Client Warming Equipment Read More »
Massage therapists working in a medical environment or offering clinical massage might need specialized equipment such as posture grids, plumb lines, and hydrotherapy equipment. Posture Grid A posture grid is a large, lined chart posted on a wall in the treatment room (Fig. 2-13). The client is positioned standing in front of the grid during
D. Assessment and Clinical Equipment Read More »
The centerpiece of a well-designed and comfortable massage room is the massage table well made up with linens. For therapists on a budget, plain sheets and a large bath towel can be used. Multitonal colors in slightly varying shades provide texture and depth. Take care to match the linens to the décor of the room.
A massage chair is indispensable if you are going to do chair massage on-site in offices, sporting events, fairs or community events, airports, malls, or anywhere you do massage in the public eye. We know that seated massage has been performed for thousands of years. However, the invention of the massage chair transformed seated massage
B. The Massage Chair Read More »
The massage table supports the client in a reclining position during the massage. It is covered with a clean set of linen for each client and is narrow enough to give the therapist easy access to the client’s body. Different manufacturers offer many different features and options. Tables may be stationary, hydraulically lifted, electrically lifted,
A. The Massage Table Read More »
Your client’s perception of their massage is created or altered through their five senses because this is how we interpret our environment. Therefore, we shape client comfort by paying attention to what the client sees, hears, smells, tastes, and feels during the session. Look at your client’s experience through the lens of the five senses.
Lesson 2-3: Creating a Comfortable Massage Environment Read More »
Lubricants are used with many massage techniques to prevent undue friction between the therapist’s hands and the client’s skin. While some techniques are performed on dry skin without a lubricant, most strokes feel uncomfortable to clients without some sort of lubrication. The choice of lubricant is based in part on the degree of slip and
Lesson 2-2: Lubricants Read More »
Massage equipment includes all items and tools therapists might use in their massage practice (Box 2-1). The equipment must be well made, safe, attractive, and comfortable for the client and should not cause undue stress to the therapist’s body. Each piece of equipment represents an investment in your business and your clients. Therefore, when you
Lesson 2-1: Massage Equipment Read More »
Early in your massage training program, it is important to appreciate the tools of the trade, work with them safely, and consider your equipment needs for professional practice. Scroll through the slides below to get a quick overview of what you can expect in each lesson of this chapter on Massage Equipment. More specialized equipment
Lesson 2-0: Introduction Read More »
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