Continuing My Education
Taking classes for credit at age 72 isn’t easy. But my clients expect me to be competent, effective, and current, so continuing education is part of my work life as it is for most professionals.
This year has been particularly interesting. Most of what I study is offered through the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA). The professional association recognizes that most good massage therapists have learned more on-the-job and in advanced coursework than they learned in massage school.
This year, I have done over 30 hours of coursework. Both the national conference courses and those offered by the Ohio AMTA are very good and timely. The following courses caught my interest and added to my work.
Lymphatic Balancing for Massage
Unlocking the Science of Stretching: A Deep Dive into its Benefits and Techniques
Massage Therapy Techniques for the Head and Neck
Mastering Massage Strategies for Pain Management
Craniosacral Therapy...What is it Really?
Effective Soft-Tissue Strategies for Plantar Fasciitis and Plantar Fasciosis
Approaching the Lower Body from All Angles
Self-Care Fitness Principles for Massage Therapists
Introduction to Sports Massage
Myofascial Release: Upper Body
As we all know, the fact that I took these classes does not mean that I am proficient in all of these. But I have incorporated elements of each of these into my massages. I have also enjoyed discussing these topics with interested clients.
Certainly, it is not my intent to attempt techniques that I have not mastered. If any of these areas of study are relevant to a client, I am happy to discuss treatment, do what I know well, or refer to an appropriate colleague.
I continue to be amazed by the wonders of the human body. Even when I had a basic understanding of the function of the organs, I had little background on muscles and fascia. As I begin to incorporate myofascial technique into my massages, I am gaining a new appreciation for the fascia that helps hold everything in place. Muscles and the fascia within and around muscle tissue work together to enable movement and stability.
“Myofascial” refers to the muscles and fascia working together. It was not until the 1970s that fascia even had a name. It is throughout our bodies and provides both form and function.
The term “craniosacral” refers to the back from the cranium to the sacrum. These are muscles that work very hard especially those along the spine that hold our heads up.
Let me know if you want to know more about these topics or to have me show you how they work. I love to share!
Dick Ferguson, LMT
