Prone Position. To bolster the client in the prone position, reach under the bottom sheet with the hand closest to the bottom end of the table and lift the client’s ankles. Place the bolster under the bottom sheet and position it under the ankles. Prone Position. This image shows the placement of the bolster without […]
G. Technique 6: Using Bolsters Read More »
Clients take different positions on a massage table or chair. Positioning allows access to specific areas of the body. Bolsters are foam supports placed under the neck, knees, ankles, abdominal area, or upper chest or along the side of the body to decrease stress on joints and provide soft surfaces to support the client. Pillows
Lesson 10-2: Positioning Read More »
Massage theory and technique are sometimes taught in isolation, especially in the early portions of a massage training program. Students focus on one skill at a time and then put them all together into an organized whole. By previewing the big picture, however, students can better understand where and how different skills are used during
Lesson 10-1: Overview of a Wellness Massage Session Read More »
Specialized support systems use foam forms that match the body’s contours. Typically many pieces are included to fill in every gap where a client might need support. Velcro strips keep these pieces in place during massage. These systems are particularly useful with pregnant clients, larger clients, or clients with large breasts or abdomens. The bodyCushion™produced
F. Use of Specialized Body Support Systems Read More »
A massage session is comprised of a variety of skills, often happening simultaneously and on many levels. You have already learned how to set up and organize massage equipment for the session. You have also learned how to practice good hygiene and sanitation. Knowledge of ethical issues provides a framework to think about therapeutic touch
Chapter 10-0: Introduction Read More »
In the seated position, the client sits in a regular chair or a specially designed massage chair with the upper body supported. In a massage chair, the chair’s structure supports the client’s chest and face. The seated position is often used for on-site work on a fully clothed client who receives a 10- to 30-minute
E. The Seated Position Read More »
In a semireclined position, the client lies on the back with the upper body elevated to a semi-sitting position. Pillows or special wedges are placed under the back, neck, head, and sometimes under each arm, and a bolster is placed under the knees. Some clients prefer only a slight elevation of their upper body, and
D. The Semireclined Position Read More »
In the side-lying position (also called the lateral recumbent position), the client lies on one side. A bolster or pillow is placed under the knee and ankle of the upper leg so the client can roll forward slightly and rest against the bolster or pillow. A second pillow is placed under the neck and head,
C. The Side-Lying Position Read More »
In the supine position, the client is face up, lying on the spine. A bolster is placed under the knees to relieve tension on the knees and low back, and a small pillow or rolled hand towel is placed under the cervical spine to support the neck. Sometimes a bolster is also placed under the
B. The Supine Position Read More »
In the prone position, a client is face down, lying on the abdominal muscles. The face is situated in a face cradle to maintain the cervical spine in a neutral position. A bolster is placed under the ankles to reduce stress on the ankles, knees, and low back. If the client feels pressure on the
A. The Prone Position Read More »
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