Two clients walk in on the same day, both with a chief complaint of low back pain. Randy is a 30-year-old weekend warrior who overdid it deadlifting at the gym two days ago. His pain is sharp and localized; he is anxious to get back to training. Melinda is a 55-year-old office worker with chronic, … Read more
Introduction Musicians face unique physical challenges in their pursuit of musical excellence. The demanding nature of their craft often leads to a high prevalence of repetitive strain injuries (RSIs). Studies indicate that up to 80% of professional musicians experience playing-related musculoskeletal disorders at some point in their careers [1]. These injuries can significantly impact performance … Read more
Introduction The HOPRS framework is a great guideline for performing client assessment. HOPRS stands for History, Observation, Palpation, Range-of-Motion and Resistance Testing, and Special Tests. Not all of these elements are necessary for every situation, and assessment doesn’t need to take very long. But, each part of HOPRS plays a different role in determining the … Read more
Introduction Muscle contractions form the foundation of every movement and activity our bodies perform. Muscle contractions are critical, from simple tasks like grasping a cup to complex actions like executing an intricate dance. For massage therapists, understanding these contractions is crucial for enhancing assessment and treatment effectiveness. In this article, we will explore the types … Read more
Updated 03/29/24 Retinacula are essential components of the musculoskeletal system, particularly in the distal extremities, where they facilitate efficient and smooth movement. These fibrous bands or thickenings of the deep fascia hold tendons in place near joints, acting as pulleys to maintain the mechanical efficiency of the musculotendinous units. This discussion will delve into the … Read more
Muscles have a primary role in creating and limiting movement in the body. They are also the major focus of our work in massage therapy, with many injuries caused by improper loads on the muscular system. There are key facets of analyzing a muscle’s mechanical load that are essential in both assessment and treatment strategies. … Read more
Bending forward to the ground and straightening back up is an activity that most of us do repeatedly during the day without ever giving it a second thought. However, if you are one of the many people who have ever experienced low back pain or a hamstring injury, chances are you are far more aware … Read more
