Whitney Lowe Tightness and trigger points in the cervical muscles, and especially the sub-occipital muscles, often cause muscle tension headaches, so these are vital muscles to address in many of our massage treatments. There are a number of ways to access the cervical muscles, but there are also certain essential precautions when treating the neck. One of … Read more
The piriformis muscle is one of the six deep rotators of the hip and lies deep to the gluteal muscles (Figure 1). Even though it is small, the muscle plays a vital role in hip mechanics. Figure 1 shows the piriformis muscle in relation to the surrounding pelvis. Note that the muscle attaches to the … Read more
Nerve compression injuries are a common cause of pain and discomfort. When there are multiple locations of compression on a nerve it is called a double or multiple crush injury. A common double crush combination involves symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome existing along with those of carpal tunnel syndrome. Double crush can occur in the lower … Read more
In this issue we are taking a fresh look at what assessment actually is and how best to learn this often underappreciated element of advanced massage treatment. I’ve written a good bit on this topic over the years because it is so important. Unfortunately, to some it is intimidating, and thus avoided or excluded in … Read more
A look at neurovascular compression by the pectoralis minor muscle (pectoralis minor syndrome), a common variation of thoracic outlet syndrome. Nerve entrapment can occur in a number of locations in the upper extremity. Nerve compression symptoms can be similar from these various sites, which is why identifying the specific location of the entrapment is challenging. … Read more
The ankle complex provides a firm base of support for holding up and balancing the weight of the body. Yet, it also allows significant mobility. The ankle’s architecture must allow for adaptations in ground surface and propulsion of the lower extremity. It also functions to distribute high force loads. A good understanding of ankle structure … Read more
The physical examination component of a comprehensive assessment includes the application of crucial knowledge and skills for the massage therapist. Performing these skills and analyzing the results form a critical core of the practitioner’s success in treating pain and injury conditions. Accurate assessment provides a foundational understanding of the client’s current condition and is the … Read more
This post is also in a video clip on YouTube if you would like to watch it there. Today’s post comes from a reader who sent me a note inquiring about whether or not it was safe to work on somebody with a herniated disc. This is a question I get a good bit, and there’s … Read more
A video of this piece can also be viewed on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmwEfFXxS0k There was a post on a Facebook group earlier this week from an individual that was looking for some suggestions for how to elongate the inguinal ligament for a client that had hip pain. So there’s a couple of things that we want … Read more
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