Figure 1
Stretching the hamstrings

Understanding the Proprioceptors

Specialized sensory cells in the nervous system give the brain information about the outside world. Some of the most important receptors are sensitive to sensations such as heat, pain, or pressure. Another very important category of sensory receptors are the proprioceptors, which are specialized cells that give the brain information about movement and the body’s […]

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Figure 2
Absorbing load with different length lever arm.

Exploring Torque and Rotary Motion

An exploration of torque and rotary motion in biomechanics and kinesiology, and how we apply these principles effectively in our practice.   Torque is an important biomechanical concept, but also one of the most frequently misunderstood. Routinely I hear massage therapists talk about the adverse effects of torque on some soft-tissue structure. I can even […]

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Figure 3
The biceps tendon long head
Image is from 3D4Medical’s Complete Anatomy application

Understanding Glenohumeral Dislocation

The shoulder (glenohumeral) joint has the greatest range of motion of any joint in the body. Yet, the joint’s bony architecture provides very little stabilizing support. Consequently, the majority of shoulder stability comes from soft tissues that both guide and limit movement at the shoulder. This joints enhanced mobility leaves it vulnerable to problems, in […]

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Figure 2
Common piriformis stretching position

The Paradoxical Piriformis Stretch

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, it plays a vital role in hip mechanics and conditions such as piriformis syndrome where the piriformis muscle compresses the sciatic nerve as it exits the greater sciatic […]

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Figure 1
Vertebral arteries passing through transverse processes in cervical vertebrae
Image is from 3D4Medical’s Complete Anatomy application

Understanding Vertebrobasilar Insufficiency

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 […]

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The Crucial Importance of Learning Assessment

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 […]

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Figure 1
Nerve roots as they exit the spine
Mediclip image copyright (1998) Williams & Wilkins. All Rights Reserved.

The Double Crush Phenomenon

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 […]

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Figure 3
Ulnar nerve innervation in the hand
Mediclip image copyright (1998) Williams & Wilkins. All Rights Reserved.

Pectoralis Minor Syndrome

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 […]

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Episode 35: Resources That Inspire Our Learning

Whitney Lowe: Welcome to The Thinking Practitioner. ABMP is proud to sponsor The Thinking Practitioner Podcast. All massage therapist and body-workers can access free ABMP resources and information on the coronavirus and the massage [email protected]/COVID19, including sample release forms, PBE guides and a special issue of massage and bodywork magazine, where Til and I are […]

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Figure 4
The subtalar joint
Image courtesy of Complete Anatomy

Ankle Structure and Mechanics

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 […]

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