Have you ever wanted to do massage at home with your partner but didn't know where to start? Do you try doing massage but get tired quickly? Are you wondering how to please your partner, who keeps asking for "harder," without hurting yourself? If so, you need to take one of the Massage for Couples classes I'll be teaching at Forest Park Community College on Sept. 26 and Oct. 10.
This one day, 5 1/2 hour class is meant to give nonprofessionals the basic skills to do massage for relaxation on each other at home. While we can't teach you to be a massage therapist in one day, you should leave the class feeling confident that you and your partner can begin to enjoy sharing massage with each other at home. "Couples" can be any two individuals, not just spouses, but you must register for the class in pairs. Friends, roommates, teammates, and family members are welcome to participate.
The class begins with some introductory information on massage theory so that participants can understand the "why" behind what they are doing. Precautions are covered so that it is clearly understood how to work in a manner that does no harm to either the giver or the recipient. Most of the class is "hands-on." Particular attention is paid to making sure the "giver" works in a way that will not hurt them. A variety of strokes are taught that allow for maximum flexibility. Participants learn strokes that are light but still effective and also more vigorous strokes that can affect deeper tissues.
Class size is limited so that participants get plenty of individual attention and many personal concerns and interests can be addressed. The class is relaxed and friendly. Participants have ranged in age from their early 20s to their 70s and come from many walks of life. It's a lot of fun.
Cost of the class is very modest - only $29 per person for a 5 1/2 hour class! For more information or to register, call the Continuing Education department at 314-984-7777 or go to the St. Louis Community College website: http://www.stlcc.edu. Find the class schedule for Continuing Education, Fall 2009, and look for the Massage for Couples class at Forest Park.
Participants should bring a bag lunch since we only have a half hour lunch break and there is no fast food easily available. Participants also need to bring a set of sheets and a pillow or bolster. Oil will be provided. Sometimes the room is cool so a blanket is recommended. Also highly recommended is a yoga mat or heavy bath towel. Since we have to use regular classroom tables, something to make the surface a little more comfortable is desirable. Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing. You should wear a bathing suit or other clothing that allows maximum access to your skin under your street clothes.
This semester, the class will be offered on Sept. 26 and Oct 10. If you're interested but can't make it this time, don't despair. The class is offered twice each semester, including the summer semester. The next classes will be Feb. 20 and Feb. 27, 2010.
If you've got any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Hope to see you there! And tell your friends!
Monday, September 14, 2009
Monday, August 17, 2009
Some Business Questions From A Reader
A reader asked the following questions:
You really are thinking ahead and that's very good!
I'll be honest with you, when I started out I didn't think about how I'd go about making a living, I just wanted to learn how to be a massage therapist. Perhaps it's fortunate because if I'd realized I'd end up being a small business owner I might have talked myself out of it! At the time, the idea of being self-employed scared me.
I have worked in several situations over the years. When I got out of school, I went to work in a chiropractor's office as an independent subcontractor. I worked on a percentage basis. The advantage to me was that I did not have a set overhead to meet every month. I set about trying to build a clientele and also got some clients from the Yellow Pages ad that the office ran in the phone book.
Eventually I struck out on my own. I began working part-time in another chiropractor's office but I rented a room and did not work for the chiropractor. I had built up enough clientele that I was better off having a set overhead rather than paying a large percentage of my gross. I also had more independence regarding setting my schedule, etc.
During this time, I also went to work part-time as an employee at a hospital. The hospital booked the appointments, did laundry, etc. I just showed up and did my appointments. One of the things I particularly liked about that situation was the camaraderie I experienced with the other therapists. The clients were not "mine" and their records belonged to the hospital, so when I left there very few of them came with me.
I am a sole proprietor. Start-up costs were minimal. I needed a table, sheets, oil, a clock, and something to play music. The first office provided me with a room, a stool, and a desk. Over time I've acquired books and a few other things but one does not need a lot to do massage.
In the beginning I consulted with an accountant and she helped me to set up a basic bookkeeping system. A good accountant can discuss the various options and help you to decide what's best for you.
Each situation has it's advantages and disadvantages. I enjoy the independence that my current situation affords me. I now share an office with another practitioner and I love my room and the space that we share. Each different situation has been a step along the way and has been a learning experience. Each provided for different needs that I had and helped me to clarify what I wanted. I don't think there's any one situation that's "best" for everyone and at different periods of our lives and our careers we can have different needs and may make different choices. You have to think about your own temperament and what you want out of your practice. I'm not the best business person and don't like the paperwork I have to do. Sometimes I wonder if I would be better off being an employee for someone else. However, I enjoy the flexibility and autonomy and so accept the advantages and disadvantages of the choice I've made. I also know that if I want to, I can seek employment with an established business. I always have options.
So yes, I'm happy with my situation. If I were to do it over . . . perhaps I'd do a few things slightly differently but overall it's been a good journey.
One thing I've never done, and would not do, would be to sign a "no compete" clause that would restrict where I can practice or who I can see and when. Perhaps I'll address this separately as I have some very firm thoughts about being an ethical employee.
I hope I've answered your questions. If not, feel free to follow up!
I am currently in school for massage therapy and I have a few questions regarding starting a business for myself. My questions include:
What business structure did you chose (sole proprietor, partnership, LLC, etc)?
Are you happy with the structure you selected?
Was it easy or complicated to set up?
Were there costs associated with the business type you chose?
What are the advantages and disadvantages to the type of business structure you chose?
If you had to do it all over again, would they still chose the same business structure?
Any feedback is appreciated!! Thank You!!
Jamie
You really are thinking ahead and that's very good!
I'll be honest with you, when I started out I didn't think about how I'd go about making a living, I just wanted to learn how to be a massage therapist. Perhaps it's fortunate because if I'd realized I'd end up being a small business owner I might have talked myself out of it! At the time, the idea of being self-employed scared me.
I have worked in several situations over the years. When I got out of school, I went to work in a chiropractor's office as an independent subcontractor. I worked on a percentage basis. The advantage to me was that I did not have a set overhead to meet every month. I set about trying to build a clientele and also got some clients from the Yellow Pages ad that the office ran in the phone book.
Eventually I struck out on my own. I began working part-time in another chiropractor's office but I rented a room and did not work for the chiropractor. I had built up enough clientele that I was better off having a set overhead rather than paying a large percentage of my gross. I also had more independence regarding setting my schedule, etc.
During this time, I also went to work part-time as an employee at a hospital. The hospital booked the appointments, did laundry, etc. I just showed up and did my appointments. One of the things I particularly liked about that situation was the camaraderie I experienced with the other therapists. The clients were not "mine" and their records belonged to the hospital, so when I left there very few of them came with me.
I am a sole proprietor. Start-up costs were minimal. I needed a table, sheets, oil, a clock, and something to play music. The first office provided me with a room, a stool, and a desk. Over time I've acquired books and a few other things but one does not need a lot to do massage.
In the beginning I consulted with an accountant and she helped me to set up a basic bookkeeping system. A good accountant can discuss the various options and help you to decide what's best for you.
Each situation has it's advantages and disadvantages. I enjoy the independence that my current situation affords me. I now share an office with another practitioner and I love my room and the space that we share. Each different situation has been a step along the way and has been a learning experience. Each provided for different needs that I had and helped me to clarify what I wanted. I don't think there's any one situation that's "best" for everyone and at different periods of our lives and our careers we can have different needs and may make different choices. You have to think about your own temperament and what you want out of your practice. I'm not the best business person and don't like the paperwork I have to do. Sometimes I wonder if I would be better off being an employee for someone else. However, I enjoy the flexibility and autonomy and so accept the advantages and disadvantages of the choice I've made. I also know that if I want to, I can seek employment with an established business. I always have options.
So yes, I'm happy with my situation. If I were to do it over . . . perhaps I'd do a few things slightly differently but overall it's been a good journey.
One thing I've never done, and would not do, would be to sign a "no compete" clause that would restrict where I can practice or who I can see and when. Perhaps I'll address this separately as I have some very firm thoughts about being an ethical employee.
I hope I've answered your questions. If not, feel free to follow up!
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Massage Franchises: The Inside Story
Please note: Ask The Massage Therapist has moved to http://www.massage-stlouis.com
You can follow us on Twitter at massagestl
A few years ago, Massage Therapy Journal published an article, "Get Ready For Massage Envy!" The article, based on interviews with the founders of the franchise, painted a glowing picture of a business where happy massage therapists had 401K plans, were paid for empty appointments during their shift, and were well compensated for their work. I couldn't help but feel, though, that there was a slightly ominous warning in the title. How could a franchise offer all this to the therapist and only charge $39 for an hour massage?
Not long afterwards, the first six massage franchises opened in the St. Louis area, with four more soon to follow, each with ten or twelve massage rooms. I was curious about what it was like to work in such a place and eventually had the opportunity to find out from an experienced therapist who took a job in a franchise for about a year.
First, let's get one thing clear: for $39 you get a fifty minute massage, not a one hour massage. Still, it sounds like a good deal, right? But is it really as good a deal as it appears?
Clients who get massages in salons, spas, and massage franchises are expected to tip and the customary tip in such a situation is usually $10. So, that brings the price of a 50 minute massage up to $49, essentially a dollar a minute. It's still less than what most independent massage therapists in my neck of the woods charge, around $70 for a full sixty minute massage. However, it's not that much less and the $39 introductory price is for one time only. After that, the price jumps to $69 for a 50 minute massage. At that point, you are actually paying more than you'd pay an independent therapist.
The franchise will try to convince you to become a "member" for $59/month. This membership entitles you to one massage per month. As a member, you'll also get the $59 rate for any other massages you book. You will be charged whether you get a massage that month or not. At $59 for a 50 minute massage, you are actually paying more, per minute, than you would be paying an independent therapist at $70 for a full 60 minute massage, and that's before you add the tip. If you don't get a massage, you will still be charged $59. You can defer the unused massage so that if you don't get a massage one month, you can use it the next month and have two that month. However, many members end up dropping their memberships when they find they are not using their massages, so they end up paying for massages they never get. It ends up not being nearly as good a deal as it first appears.
Meanwhile, let's look at the therapists. Solicitations I've received from a popular franchise promise competitive compensation, 401K plans, and compensation for unfilled appointments. However, in talking both with a representative for the franchise who called me, looking to hire a therapist, and the observations of my friend, the picture is not so rosy. Therapists earn $15 per massage, less than half of what the business charges their customers. After deducting taxes, the therapist gets closer to $10. Although many patrons tip, many do not. As for 401k plans, few therapists stay long enough to qualify. After six months, my friend was the only therapist in her location who had been there over three months.
The overwhelming majority of therapists staffing massage franchises have just recently graduated from massage school and are willing to work for minimal compensation in order to get some experience. Even so, few of them stay more than three months. While they are theoretically paid $8.50 for unfilled appointments in their schedule, in reality they rarely receive it since any appointments that are booked that week are charged against their idle time. The therapist is still required to be present during their shift and is not allowed to leave, whether they have appointments or not. Even young, inexperienced therapists soon decide they are getting a bad deal and look elsewhere for employment.
How does compensation at the massage franchise compare to working at other places of employment? Hair salons and chiropractors' offices typically pay the massage therapist 70% of what the client is charged. Spas typically give the therapist 50% but since they often charge more, the therapist is kept busy, and the clients tip, the therapist is still compensated fairly for their work. One local day spa charges between $73 - $98 for an hour massage, depending on the type of massage and the level of experience and skill of the therapist. The therapist earns a minimum of $36 for their work. At $15 per massage, the franchise is giving the therapist less than 40% of what the client pays and less than half of what the therapist would be paid elsewhere. At the full price of $69, the therapist is given barely over 20% of what the client pays the franchise owner.
Being a massage therapist is rewarding work but also physically demanding work. There is a limit to the number of massages most therapists can do in a week. Dropout rate in the profession is high and one of the significant factors is the physical demands it places on the therapist, especially those who are doing deep tissue work. It is no wonder that even young, inexperienced therapists quickly leave the franchises when they are compensated so poorly for physically demanding work.
I've had a few clients who have had a massage or two at one of the franchises. A client who is accustomed to massage from an experienced therapist can tell immediately when their therapist is inexperienced. They adjust their expectations accordingly. Still, one told me of an incident that left her shaking her head. Her massage therapist was doing a fair enough job but when she got to the client's feet, the client could tell she was massaging with only one hand, which was not the norm. When this continued, the client, who was face down, lifted her head to see what was going on. The young therapist was massaging her foot with one hand and text messaging with the other. After what I know about working in a massage franchise, I'm not surprised that the therapist lacked attention and dedication to her work.
I suppose there are some advantages to the massage franchises. If you are someone who waits until the last minute to book an appointment, there is probably someone at the franchise sitting around who can take you immediately. They will probably be someone inexperienced, disgruntled, who is just filling in time until they can get a better job elsewhere. You might as well plan ahead a little and patronize an independent therapist who is experienced and dedicated to her work and her clients. You'll get a better massage and you'll feel better knowing your therapist is being compensated fairly.
You can follow us on Twitter at massagestl
A few years ago, Massage Therapy Journal published an article, "Get Ready For Massage Envy!" The article, based on interviews with the founders of the franchise, painted a glowing picture of a business where happy massage therapists had 401K plans, were paid for empty appointments during their shift, and were well compensated for their work. I couldn't help but feel, though, that there was a slightly ominous warning in the title. How could a franchise offer all this to the therapist and only charge $39 for an hour massage?
Not long afterwards, the first six massage franchises opened in the St. Louis area, with four more soon to follow, each with ten or twelve massage rooms. I was curious about what it was like to work in such a place and eventually had the opportunity to find out from an experienced therapist who took a job in a franchise for about a year.
First, let's get one thing clear: for $39 you get a fifty minute massage, not a one hour massage. Still, it sounds like a good deal, right? But is it really as good a deal as it appears?
Clients who get massages in salons, spas, and massage franchises are expected to tip and the customary tip in such a situation is usually $10. So, that brings the price of a 50 minute massage up to $49, essentially a dollar a minute. It's still less than what most independent massage therapists in my neck of the woods charge, around $70 for a full sixty minute massage. However, it's not that much less and the $39 introductory price is for one time only. After that, the price jumps to $69 for a 50 minute massage. At that point, you are actually paying more than you'd pay an independent therapist.
The franchise will try to convince you to become a "member" for $59/month. This membership entitles you to one massage per month. As a member, you'll also get the $59 rate for any other massages you book. You will be charged whether you get a massage that month or not. At $59 for a 50 minute massage, you are actually paying more, per minute, than you would be paying an independent therapist at $70 for a full 60 minute massage, and that's before you add the tip. If you don't get a massage, you will still be charged $59. You can defer the unused massage so that if you don't get a massage one month, you can use it the next month and have two that month. However, many members end up dropping their memberships when they find they are not using their massages, so they end up paying for massages they never get. It ends up not being nearly as good a deal as it first appears.
Meanwhile, let's look at the therapists. Solicitations I've received from a popular franchise promise competitive compensation, 401K plans, and compensation for unfilled appointments. However, in talking both with a representative for the franchise who called me, looking to hire a therapist, and the observations of my friend, the picture is not so rosy. Therapists earn $15 per massage, less than half of what the business charges their customers. After deducting taxes, the therapist gets closer to $10. Although many patrons tip, many do not. As for 401k plans, few therapists stay long enough to qualify. After six months, my friend was the only therapist in her location who had been there over three months.
The overwhelming majority of therapists staffing massage franchises have just recently graduated from massage school and are willing to work for minimal compensation in order to get some experience. Even so, few of them stay more than three months. While they are theoretically paid $8.50 for unfilled appointments in their schedule, in reality they rarely receive it since any appointments that are booked that week are charged against their idle time. The therapist is still required to be present during their shift and is not allowed to leave, whether they have appointments or not. Even young, inexperienced therapists soon decide they are getting a bad deal and look elsewhere for employment.
How does compensation at the massage franchise compare to working at other places of employment? Hair salons and chiropractors' offices typically pay the massage therapist 70% of what the client is charged. Spas typically give the therapist 50% but since they often charge more, the therapist is kept busy, and the clients tip, the therapist is still compensated fairly for their work. One local day spa charges between $73 - $98 for an hour massage, depending on the type of massage and the level of experience and skill of the therapist. The therapist earns a minimum of $36 for their work. At $15 per massage, the franchise is giving the therapist less than 40% of what the client pays and less than half of what the therapist would be paid elsewhere. At the full price of $69, the therapist is given barely over 20% of what the client pays the franchise owner.
Being a massage therapist is rewarding work but also physically demanding work. There is a limit to the number of massages most therapists can do in a week. Dropout rate in the profession is high and one of the significant factors is the physical demands it places on the therapist, especially those who are doing deep tissue work. It is no wonder that even young, inexperienced therapists quickly leave the franchises when they are compensated so poorly for physically demanding work.
I've had a few clients who have had a massage or two at one of the franchises. A client who is accustomed to massage from an experienced therapist can tell immediately when their therapist is inexperienced. They adjust their expectations accordingly. Still, one told me of an incident that left her shaking her head. Her massage therapist was doing a fair enough job but when she got to the client's feet, the client could tell she was massaging with only one hand, which was not the norm. When this continued, the client, who was face down, lifted her head to see what was going on. The young therapist was massaging her foot with one hand and text messaging with the other. After what I know about working in a massage franchise, I'm not surprised that the therapist lacked attention and dedication to her work.
I suppose there are some advantages to the massage franchises. If you are someone who waits until the last minute to book an appointment, there is probably someone at the franchise sitting around who can take you immediately. They will probably be someone inexperienced, disgruntled, who is just filling in time until they can get a better job elsewhere. You might as well plan ahead a little and patronize an independent therapist who is experienced and dedicated to her work and her clients. You'll get a better massage and you'll feel better knowing your therapist is being compensated fairly.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Massage For Couples Class: July 18, 2009
I'll be teaching another Massage For Couples class at Forest Park Community College on Saturday, July 18, 2009. If you'd like to learn how to do massage on each other at home, this is the class for you. A "couple" can be any two people, but you must register in pairs. Spouses, family members, teammates, all "couples" are welcome. Please note that if you register online, you will have to register one at a time for the class. Refer to the Continuing Education catalog for what to bring to class.
For more detailed information about the class, see the blog entry for January 22, 2009.
Hope to see you there!
For more detailed information about the class, see the blog entry for January 22, 2009.
Hope to see you there!
Monday, April 13, 2009
Improved Performance: One Athlete's Story
Many years ago I worked with a long distance runner whose goal was to qualify for the Olympic trials. He was the most serious athlete with whom I've worked the most consistently over the longest period of time. I saw him at least once a week for 2 1/2 years. After about six months of regular massage therapy, he commented one day that he'd just gone the longest period he'd ever had without a pulled muscle. I asked him to elaborate.
Don (not his real name) was a serious runner who did everything he could to maximize his performance. He stretched religiously and paid careful attention to nutrition. Still, every few months he'd pull a muscle and have to take some time off from running. Now that he was getting weekly sports massage, his muscles were not getting tight and he was not experiencing the pulled muscles that he'd gotten previously. When he first came for massage, he was running 60 to 80 miles a week. He was now running 80 to 100 miles a week and was running with more ease. In addition he'd shaved two minutes off his 10K time. His recovery time after a marathon had decreased dramatically. He was quite pleased with the results of his weekly massages.
During the 2 1/2 years I worked with Don, he got two minor hamstring pulls from which he recovered quickly. He never missed a race because of a problem with his muscles. Because he was constantly measuring himself, Don could easily see the difference that regular massage had made in his performance.
Don moved away but I asked him to call me if he qualified for the Olympic trials. One day I got a phone call from him. Normally he was a person I'd describe as somewhat serious, but he was giggling like a kid. He'd just reached his goal and had qualified for the Olympic trials. I was elated and felt proud to have been part of his "team".
Whether you are a serious runner like Don or more casual about your physical activity, the right kind of sports massage can help keep your muscles functioning at their best. Less tightness means that you are less likely to pull a muscle, that your muscles will have their maximum power and range of motion, that you will fatigue less quickly, and recover more quickly. If you are a competitive athlete, regular sports massage can give you that competitive edge.
Don (not his real name) was a serious runner who did everything he could to maximize his performance. He stretched religiously and paid careful attention to nutrition. Still, every few months he'd pull a muscle and have to take some time off from running. Now that he was getting weekly sports massage, his muscles were not getting tight and he was not experiencing the pulled muscles that he'd gotten previously. When he first came for massage, he was running 60 to 80 miles a week. He was now running 80 to 100 miles a week and was running with more ease. In addition he'd shaved two minutes off his 10K time. His recovery time after a marathon had decreased dramatically. He was quite pleased with the results of his weekly massages.
During the 2 1/2 years I worked with Don, he got two minor hamstring pulls from which he recovered quickly. He never missed a race because of a problem with his muscles. Because he was constantly measuring himself, Don could easily see the difference that regular massage had made in his performance.
Don moved away but I asked him to call me if he qualified for the Olympic trials. One day I got a phone call from him. Normally he was a person I'd describe as somewhat serious, but he was giggling like a kid. He'd just reached his goal and had qualified for the Olympic trials. I was elated and felt proud to have been part of his "team".
Whether you are a serious runner like Don or more casual about your physical activity, the right kind of sports massage can help keep your muscles functioning at their best. Less tightness means that you are less likely to pull a muscle, that your muscles will have their maximum power and range of motion, that you will fatigue less quickly, and recover more quickly. If you are a competitive athlete, regular sports massage can give you that competitive edge.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Posture, Leg Length Differences, and Chronic Pain
I'm back! Yes, I've been gone for awhile. Those who know me personally will know that on 1/30/09 there was a fire at my office building. Fortunately, no one was hurt and my office didn't burn, but my room was devastated by smoke and water damage. After a month of scrambling to make do in the wake of the fire, I moved into a new office with a former office mate, Anne Thomasson. Anne, who was also displaced by the fire, practices massage and also teaches a form of therapeutic exercise called Gyrotonics. She now has a large, beautiful studio and I love walking into such a light, open space every day. We're both settling into our new spaces.
We recently attended the Missouri State Chapter meeting of the American Massage Therapy Association at Lake of the Ozarks. This was the 50th Anniversary of our state chapter and 230 massage therapists attended. There were a number of presenters. Anne and I chose the workshops presented by Paul St. John.
Paul St. John has been a leader in the field of massage therapy since at least the mid 80s. He is a dynamic speaker and his approach is very structural and rational. This particular weekend he focussed on mobilizing the sacro-iliac joint, where the base of the spine meets the hip bone, and the cervical spine where it meets the skull. There was considerable discussion about postural distortion and how it can lead to chronic pain. Paul drew a lot of attention to assessing for uneven leg lengths, which he believes is an underdiagnosed and often an unrecognized factor contributing to many people's postural distortion and pain.
Techniques were taught to mobilize the sacro-iliac joint and the cervical spine where it meets the skull. After the four hour car ride home, I was amazed that I did not feel as stiff as I usually do, something I'm convinced was a result of the SI joint work I'd received that morning in class.
I'm looking forward to becoming more adept at the skills that were taught and incorporating them into my work. I had a great time seeing old acquaintances and meeting new people. The AMTA conference was, I believe, a great success all around.
We recently attended the Missouri State Chapter meeting of the American Massage Therapy Association at Lake of the Ozarks. This was the 50th Anniversary of our state chapter and 230 massage therapists attended. There were a number of presenters. Anne and I chose the workshops presented by Paul St. John.
Paul St. John has been a leader in the field of massage therapy since at least the mid 80s. He is a dynamic speaker and his approach is very structural and rational. This particular weekend he focussed on mobilizing the sacro-iliac joint, where the base of the spine meets the hip bone, and the cervical spine where it meets the skull. There was considerable discussion about postural distortion and how it can lead to chronic pain. Paul drew a lot of attention to assessing for uneven leg lengths, which he believes is an underdiagnosed and often an unrecognized factor contributing to many people's postural distortion and pain.
Techniques were taught to mobilize the sacro-iliac joint and the cervical spine where it meets the skull. After the four hour car ride home, I was amazed that I did not feel as stiff as I usually do, something I'm convinced was a result of the SI joint work I'd received that morning in class.
I'm looking forward to becoming more adept at the skills that were taught and incorporating them into my work. I had a great time seeing old acquaintances and meeting new people. The AMTA conference was, I believe, a great success all around.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
A Reader's Question: Are Massage Therapists Fat Friendly?
A reader asks:
That's a good question and I'm glad you asked. I'm going to ask some massage therapists and see what they have to say about it. I can't speak for "most" massage therapists. Strangely, I don't recall it coming up in conversation so I don't know what other massage therapists would say. However, speaking for myself, I welcome anyone and everyone that I'm capable of accommodating. It pains me when I occasionally hear someone say that they'd like to get a massage but they are reluctant because of their weight. I want people to feel that my office is one place where they can feel good about themselves and accepted just at they are.
Please note: This article was written in January, 2009. Since that time I have learned some things about how massage works and about how the nervous system works that I didn't know then. My answer would be different now. I am keeping the article as it was originally written. However, I now know that we don't need to be able to palpate the muscles in order to treat pain. In fact, massage works through the nervous system. Receptors in the skin respond to our touch, send impulses to the brain, and it is the brain that makes the muscles relax or turns down the volume on pain. It is not direct pressure on the muscle. Therefore, it doesn't matter how much adipose tissue lies between our hand on the surface of the skin and the muscles below. This is good news.
I still welcome clients of all shapes and sizes and if I am unable to accommodate them for any reason, I am happy to help them find a therapist who can. - Updated 8/17/13 by Alice
It can present some challenges for the massage therapist and some of this depends on the type of massage that you are doing. If you are focusing on relaxation, there should not really be a problem since the work is more general rather than specific. However, if you are trying to work with a specific pain problem, can be more difficult for the therapist to palpate bony landmarks and to directly affect the muscles below. If the therapist knows their anatomy well, they can compensate for this diminished ability to feel the tissues by their understanding of anatomy. Further, since the nerves that serve the muscles also serve the skin directly over the muscles, we can have an effect on deeper tissues even if we cannot touch them directly. My personal experience is that if I focus, I can sometimes eventually palpate more than than I initially realized. So yes, can be more challenging but it is certainly possible.
As for the effectiveness, this is going to vary with the individual client and is hard to predict. My suggestion would be for a person to try it and see if they find it effective.
As long as my table can safely support a person, they are always welcome in my office. If my table could not support an interested client, I would find a therapist whose table could support them. I would hope that other therapists would feel the same. If they do not, then perhaps they should seek another profession.
Ask The Massage Therapist has moved to http://www.massage-stlouis.com
Please come and visit us there! You can follow us on Twitter at massagestl
Are most massage therapists fat-friendly? Is it more difficult to do work on a fat person, and is it as effective for the client?
Thanks, Alice!
That's a good question and I'm glad you asked. I'm going to ask some massage therapists and see what they have to say about it. I can't speak for "most" massage therapists. Strangely, I don't recall it coming up in conversation so I don't know what other massage therapists would say. However, speaking for myself, I welcome anyone and everyone that I'm capable of accommodating. It pains me when I occasionally hear someone say that they'd like to get a massage but they are reluctant because of their weight. I want people to feel that my office is one place where they can feel good about themselves and accepted just at they are.
Please note: This article was written in January, 2009. Since that time I have learned some things about how massage works and about how the nervous system works that I didn't know then. My answer would be different now. I am keeping the article as it was originally written. However, I now know that we don't need to be able to palpate the muscles in order to treat pain. In fact, massage works through the nervous system. Receptors in the skin respond to our touch, send impulses to the brain, and it is the brain that makes the muscles relax or turns down the volume on pain. It is not direct pressure on the muscle. Therefore, it doesn't matter how much adipose tissue lies between our hand on the surface of the skin and the muscles below. This is good news.
I still welcome clients of all shapes and sizes and if I am unable to accommodate them for any reason, I am happy to help them find a therapist who can. - Updated 8/17/13 by Alice
It can present some challenges for the massage therapist and some of this depends on the type of massage that you are doing. If you are focusing on relaxation, there should not really be a problem since the work is more general rather than specific. However, if you are trying to work with a specific pain problem, can be more difficult for the therapist to palpate bony landmarks and to directly affect the muscles below. If the therapist knows their anatomy well, they can compensate for this diminished ability to feel the tissues by their understanding of anatomy. Further, since the nerves that serve the muscles also serve the skin directly over the muscles, we can have an effect on deeper tissues even if we cannot touch them directly. My personal experience is that if I focus, I can sometimes eventually palpate more than than I initially realized. So yes, can be more challenging but it is certainly possible.
As for the effectiveness, this is going to vary with the individual client and is hard to predict. My suggestion would be for a person to try it and see if they find it effective.
As long as my table can safely support a person, they are always welcome in my office. If my table could not support an interested client, I would find a therapist whose table could support them. I would hope that other therapists would feel the same. If they do not, then perhaps they should seek another profession.
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Massage For Couples Class at Forest Park
Have you ever wanted to do massage at home with your partner but didn't know where to start? Do you try doing massage but get tired quickly? Are you wondering how to please your partner, who keeps asking for "harder," without hurting yourself? If so, you need to take the Massage for Couples class I'll be teaching at Forest Park Community College on Feb. 21 and Feb. 28.
This one day, 5 1/2 hour class is meant to give nonprofessionals the basic skills to do massage for relaxation on each other at home. While we can't teach you to be a massage therapist in one day, you should leave the class feeling confident that you and your partner can begin to enjoy sharing massage with each other at home. "Couples" can be any two individuals, not just spouses, but you must register for the class in pairs. Friends, roommates, teammates, and family members are welcome to participate.
The class begins with some introductory information on massage theory so that participants can understand the "why" behind what they are doing. Precautions are covered so that it is clearly understood how to work in a manner that does no harm to either the giver or the recipient. Most of the class is "hands-on." Particular attention is paid to making sure the "giver" works in a way that will not hurt them. A variety of strokes are taught that allow for maximum flexibility. Participants learn strokes that are light but still effective and also more vigorous strokes that can affect deeper tissues.
Class size is limited so that participants get plenty of individual attention and many personal concerns and interests can be addressed. The class is relaxed and friendly. Participants have ranged in age from their early 20s to their 70s and come from many walks of life. It's a lot of fun.
Cost of the class is very modest. To register, go to the website for Forest Park Community College and look for Continuing Education. The class is listed as "Massage for Couples" in the catalog and is in the Health section. Participants should bring a bag lunch, since we only have a half hour lunch break and there is no fast food easily available. Participants also need to bring a set of sheets and a pillow or bolster. Oil will be provided. Sometimes the room is cold so a blanket is highly recommended. Also highly recommended is a yoga mat or heavy bath towel. Since we have to use hard top regular classroom tables, something to make the surface a little more comfortable is desirable. Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing. You should wear a bathing suit or other clothing that allows maximum access to your skin under your street clothes.
This semester, the class will be offered on Feb. 21 and Feb. 28. If you're interested but can't make it this time, don't despair. The class is offered twice each semester, including the summer semester.
If you've got any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me. If you have questions about registration, call the Continuing Education department at Forest Park Community College.
Hope to see you there! And tell your friends!
This one day, 5 1/2 hour class is meant to give nonprofessionals the basic skills to do massage for relaxation on each other at home. While we can't teach you to be a massage therapist in one day, you should leave the class feeling confident that you and your partner can begin to enjoy sharing massage with each other at home. "Couples" can be any two individuals, not just spouses, but you must register for the class in pairs. Friends, roommates, teammates, and family members are welcome to participate.
The class begins with some introductory information on massage theory so that participants can understand the "why" behind what they are doing. Precautions are covered so that it is clearly understood how to work in a manner that does no harm to either the giver or the recipient. Most of the class is "hands-on." Particular attention is paid to making sure the "giver" works in a way that will not hurt them. A variety of strokes are taught that allow for maximum flexibility. Participants learn strokes that are light but still effective and also more vigorous strokes that can affect deeper tissues.
Class size is limited so that participants get plenty of individual attention and many personal concerns and interests can be addressed. The class is relaxed and friendly. Participants have ranged in age from their early 20s to their 70s and come from many walks of life. It's a lot of fun.
Cost of the class is very modest. To register, go to the website for Forest Park Community College and look for Continuing Education. The class is listed as "Massage for Couples" in the catalog and is in the Health section. Participants should bring a bag lunch, since we only have a half hour lunch break and there is no fast food easily available. Participants also need to bring a set of sheets and a pillow or bolster. Oil will be provided. Sometimes the room is cold so a blanket is highly recommended. Also highly recommended is a yoga mat or heavy bath towel. Since we have to use hard top regular classroom tables, something to make the surface a little more comfortable is desirable. Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing. You should wear a bathing suit or other clothing that allows maximum access to your skin under your street clothes.
This semester, the class will be offered on Feb. 21 and Feb. 28. If you're interested but can't make it this time, don't despair. The class is offered twice each semester, including the summer semester.
If you've got any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me. If you have questions about registration, call the Continuing Education department at Forest Park Community College.
Hope to see you there! And tell your friends!
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Unexpected Results
After a bit of a holiday break, we're back on the blog. Hope everyone is getting off to a good new year.
Life often brings the unexpected and a reader writes about some unexpected results from her massage therapy session.
I'm always pleased when someone finds relief through massage therapy, but what particularly caught my attention from this reader's story is the unexpected results. We can usually expect to feel relaxed and to get at least temporary relief from sore, tight muscles. However, massage can be a catalyst for other, less expected results.
In this particular reader's case, the therapist was knowledgeable and experienced enough to understand what might be triggering the client's hip pain in the first place. Besides offering some immediate, short-term relief, he was looking at ways to solve an ongoing problem. By making a suggestion as to possible corrective actions, the client herself was able to remedy the source of the pain and prevent future problems.
An experienced and knowledgeable therapist will look for ways to educate the client so that the client can continue to get well and stay well outside of the massage room. By carefully listening to and observing the client, the therapist can help the client discover aggravating factors that may not have been obvious.
Have you had an unexpected result from massage therapy? If so, we'd like to hear about it.
Life often brings the unexpected and a reader writes about some unexpected results from her massage therapy session.
"Two years ago, I began experiencing considerable, constant pain in my right hip. I was going to be at an event across the country that a friend who is an advanced massage therapist was also going to be at. I scheduled an appointment with him, knowing it was likely to bring me temporary relief and, wow, did I want and need some relief by then!
As it turned out, the single massage gave me a lot more than temporary relief. While he was working, the massage therapist told me what he was noticing in the tightness of my hip and leg muscles suggested that I was probably turning my right foot inward while walking. I'd never noticed myself doing that, but, sure enough, he was right.
Not only did the massage leave me walking pain-free for the first time in more than a month, ever since, whenever I'm walking along and feeling a twinge in my hip, I make a point of pointing my foot out slightly outward...well, making sure it's straight, actually, but it feels like I'm pointing it outward.
Doing that always makes the hip pain go away within moments and the constant pain I was feeling for at least 4-6 weeks before that massage has not returned in the two years since I received it.
I believe it's rare for a single massage to make such a difference, but that one certainly did. It was all thanks to what the massage therapist knew, observed, and mentioned to me as being a possible source of the problem."
I'm always pleased when someone finds relief through massage therapy, but what particularly caught my attention from this reader's story is the unexpected results. We can usually expect to feel relaxed and to get at least temporary relief from sore, tight muscles. However, massage can be a catalyst for other, less expected results.
In this particular reader's case, the therapist was knowledgeable and experienced enough to understand what might be triggering the client's hip pain in the first place. Besides offering some immediate, short-term relief, he was looking at ways to solve an ongoing problem. By making a suggestion as to possible corrective actions, the client herself was able to remedy the source of the pain and prevent future problems.
An experienced and knowledgeable therapist will look for ways to educate the client so that the client can continue to get well and stay well outside of the massage room. By carefully listening to and observing the client, the therapist can help the client discover aggravating factors that may not have been obvious.
Have you had an unexpected result from massage therapy? If so, we'd like to hear about it.
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