A contributor has an unusual question: how soon can I work with someone who recently donated a kidney? We have lots of information about massage therapy for people on dialysis, and known cautions for transplant recipients, but we don’t know much about how to help living donors. In this episode, we take a look at what it’s like to give up a kidney and what kinds of accommodations for massage that requires.   This podcast sponsored by:    Books of Discovery: www.booksofdiscovery.com   Color Up: www.colorupco.com   Anatomy Trains: www.anatomytrains.com   About Color Up: Color Up makes 100% natural, cruelty free, and small batch hemp-derived CBD products intended to balance the mind, body, and spirit. “Color Up” describes our mission, our intention, and our values. It’s a symbol of health and wellness, a way to find balance and harmony, and a way to stay connected to Mother Earth and all her colorful offerings. All Color Up products aim to evoke the body’s natural ability to heal and balance. Our process begins with the proper care and study of the cannabis plant, and extends to our therapists, chemists, and cultivators who work alongside one another to create these intentional, healing products. Color Up formulations are crafted with deliberate, complementary ingredients, working with the body’s chemistry to bring relief, correction, and homeostasis!  Website: www.colorupco.com Email: [email protected] Phone: 720-420-1734 Facebook: www.facebook.com/ColorUpTribe Instagram: www.instagram.com/colorupcbd   About Anatomy Trains: Anatomy Trains is a global leader in online anatomy education and also provides in-classroom certification programs for structural integration in the US, Canada, Australia, Europe, Japan, and China, as well as fresh-tissue cadaver dissection labs and weekend courses. The work of Anatomy Trains originated with founder Tom Myers, who mapped the human body into 13 myofascial meridians in his original book, currently in its fourth edition and translated into 12 languages. The principles of Anatomy Trains are used by osteopaths, physical therapists, bodyworkers, massage therapists, personal trainers, yoga, Pilates, Gyrotonics, and other body-minded manual therapists and movement professionals. Anatomy Trains inspires these practitioners to work with holistic anatomy in treating system-wide patterns to provide improved client outcomes in terms of structure and function.   Website: anatomytrains.com   Email: [email protected]   Facebook: facebook.com/AnatomyTrains   Instagram: Instagram.com/anatomytrainsofficial   YouTube   Host:    Ruth Werner: www.ruthwerner.com       “COVID-19–Related Complications: Implications for Massage Therapy,” by Ruth Werner, Massage & Bodywork magazine, September/October 2020, page 44,   Resources:   To become an organ donor: www.organdonor.gov   Mayo Clinic. “Donor Nephrectomy.” Accessed February 11, 2021.   National Kidney Foundation. “What To Expect After Kidney Donation.” Accessed February 11, 2021.   National Kidney Registry. “Compatible Pairs: What is a Compatible Pair?” Accessed February 11, 2021.   University of California San Francisco. The Kidney Project. “Statistics.” Accessed February 11, 2021.   UNOS Transplant Living. “History of Living Donation.” Accessed February 11, 2021.   UWHeath. “Living Kidney Donation: Introduction to Living Kidney Donation.” Accessed February 11, 2021.  

Doing the hard work has always been in Diana Thompson’s blood. From an early age, philanthropy and health-care inequities fueled her passions. Diana talks with us about the importance of charting and record keeping as critical steps in acting “like health-care providers,” the importance of participation in the client-therapist relationship, and resetting goals with clients to inform their long-term, committed therapeutic wellness path.     Diana has been a licensed massage therapist for over 35 years and has a private practice in Seattle treating acute and chronic pain disorders and specializing in postoperative care. Currently, Diana dedicates her time to her web-based documentation system Hands Heal Electronic Health Records, available online at www.handshealehr.com. She authored Integrative Pain Management: Massage, Movement, and Mindfulness-Based Practices and Hands Heal: Communication, Documentation and Insurance Billing for Manual Therapists. She’s written many articles for Massage & Bodywork magazine, including our regular research column Somatic Research from 2010–2013. She is a past president of the Massage Therapy Foundation, and a proud recipient of several national awards.   This episode sponsored by:    Color Up, www.colorupco.com   Anatomy Trains, www.anatomytrains.com   About Color Up: Color Up makes 100% natural, cruelty free, and small batch hemp-derived CBD products intended to balance the mind, body, and spirit. “Color Up” describes our mission, our intention, and our values. It’s a symbol of health and wellness, a way to find balance and harmony, and a way to stay connected to Mother Earth and all her colorful offerings. All Color Up products aim to evoke the body’s natural ability to heal and balance. Our process begins with the proper care and study of the cannabis plant, and extends to our therapists, chemists, and cultivators who work alongside one another to create these intentional, healing products. Color Up formulations are crafted with deliberate, complementary ingredients, working with the body’s chemistry to bring relief, correction, and homeostasis!  Website: www.colorupco.com Email: [email protected] Phone: 720-420-1734 Facebook: www.facebook.com/ColorUpTribe Instagram: www.instagram.com/colorupcbd   About Anatomy Trains: Anatomy Trains is a global leader in online anatomy education and also provides in-classroom certification programs for structural integration in the US, Canada, Australia, Europe, Japan, and China, as well as fresh-tissue cadaver dissection labs and weekend courses. The work of Anatomy Trains originated with founder Tom Myers, who mapped the human body into 13 myofascial meridians in his original book, currently in its fourth edition and translated into 12 languages. The principles of Anatomy Trains are used by osteopaths, physical therapists, bodyworkers, massage therapists, personal trainers, yoga, Pilates, Gyrotonics, and other body-minded manual therapists and movement professionals. Anatomy Trains inspires these practitioners to work with holistic anatomy in treating system-wide patterns to provide improved client outcomes in terms of structure and function.   Website: anatomytrains.com   Email: [email protected]   Facebook: facebook.com/AnatomyTrains   Instagram: Instagram.com/anatomytrainsofficial   YouTube   Resources:   “Massage Therapy: The Invisible Profession?” by Diana Thompson, Massage & Bodywork magazine, January/February 2010, page 114,    “Levels of Evidence: How to Learn What We Want to Know,” by Diana Thompson, Massage & Bodywork magazine, March/April 2010, page 116,   “Session Planning: Making Informed Decisions for Older Clients,” by Diana Thompson, Massage & Bodywork magazine, May/June 2010, page 114,  

A client is seven months pregnant and has severe pain in both hands and wrists. Is it carpal tunnel? Can massage help? The answers are yes, maybe, AND—watch out for a significant risk.   This podcast sponsored by:     Books of Discovery: www.booksofdiscovery.com     Color Up: www.colorupco.com   Anatomy Trains: www.anatomytrains.com   About Color Up: Color Up makes 100% natural, cruelty free, and small batch hemp-derived CBD products intended to balance the mind, body, and spirit. “Color Up” describes our mission, our intention, and our values. It’s a symbol of health and wellness, a way to find balance and harmony, and a way to stay connected to Mother Earth and all her colorful offerings. All Color Up products aim to evoke the body’s natural ability to heal and balance. Our process begins with the proper care and study of the cannabis plant, and extends to our therapists, chemists, and cultivators who work alongside one another to create these intentional, healing products. Color Up formulations are crafted with deliberate, complementary ingredients, working with the body’s chemistry to bring relief, correction, and homeostasis!  Website: www.colorupco.com Email: [email protected] Phone: 720-420-1734 Facebook: www.facebook.com/ColorUpTribe Instagram: www.instagram.com/colorupcbd   About Anatomy Trains: Anatomy Trains is a global leader in online anatomy education and also provides in-classroom certification programs for structural integration in the US, Canada, Australia, Europe, Japan, and China, as well as fresh-tissue cadaver dissection labs and weekend courses. The work of Anatomy Trains originated with founder Tom Myers, who mapped the human body into 13 myofascial meridians in his original book, currently in its fourth edition and translated into 12 languages. The principles of Anatomy Trains are used by osteopaths, physical therapists, bodyworkers, massage therapists, personal trainers, yoga, Pilates, Gyrotonics, and other body-minded manual therapists and movement professionals. Anatomy Trains inspires these practitioners to work with holistic anatomy in treating system-wide patterns to provide improved client outcomes in terms of structure and function.   Website: anatomytrains.com   Email: [email protected]   Facebook: facebook.com/AnatomyTrains   Instagram: Instagram.com/anatomytrainsofficial   YouTube   Host:      Ruth Werner: www.ruthwerner.com       Resources:   “Taking the Danger Out of Endangerment Sites” continuing education webinar,   “Take the Danger Out of Endangerment Sites: Good Education and Skill Allows for Safe Massage in Otherwise Off-Limits Areas,” Massage & Bodywork magazine, May/June 2020, page 44,   Additional articles by Ruth Werner:     “COVID-19–Related Complications”       “Lipedema: the Skinny on Painful Fat,”    “Skipping a Beat: Cardiac Arrhythmias,”  

Australian practitioner Elicia Crook tells us what it takes to rebook with success—and integrity and heart-centered-ness. She learned from working in a chiropractic office (where she met a retention ninja) and a spa (where she learned about retail sales) and then created a mashup in her business Massage Champions. Her business was the highest-price/session within 35 miles of her office and she had an 85% return rate. Her book Fully Booked Without Burnout informs our discussion.   Elicia Crook is a business coach and mentor for massage therapists, sharing the tactics she used to create her business success over 16 years. Elicia is a diploma qualified remedial massage therapist, and uses modalities such as Bowen and craniosacral therapy, and has a Cert IV in Workplace Training and Assessment, which she used while teaching massage for several years. Through her career and business experience, Elicia discovered who she needed to be and what is required to run a deeply satisfying massage business. Now she takes the Fully Booked Without Burnout blueprint to other therapists around the world to create more success and passion. For more information, visit www.massagechampions.com.   This episode sponsored by:   Color Up   Anatomy Trains   About Color Up: Color Up makes 100% natural, cruelty free, and small batch hemp-derived CBD products intended to balance the mind, body, and spirit. “Color Up” describes our mission, our intention, and our values. It’s a symbol of health and wellness, a way to find balance and harmony, and a way to stay connected to Mother Earth and all her colorful offerings. All Color Up products aim to evoke the body’s natural ability to heal and balance. Our process begins with the proper care and study of the cannabis plant, and extends to our therapists, chemists, and cultivators who work alongside one another to create these intentional, healing products. Color Up formulations are crafted with deliberate, complementary ingredients, working with the body’s chemistry to bring relief, correction, and homeostasis!  Website: www.colorupco.com Email: [email protected] Phone: 720-420-1734 Facebook: www.facebook.com/ColorUpTribe Instagram: www.instagram.com/colorupcbd   About Anatomy Trains: Anatomy Trains is a global leader in online anatomy education and also provides in-classroom certification programs for structural integration in the US, Canada, Australia, Europe, Japan, and China, as well as fresh-tissue cadaver dissection labs and weekend courses. The work of Anatomy Trains originated with founder Tom Myers, who mapped the human body into 13 myofascial meridians in his original book, currently in its fourth edition and translated into 12 languages. The principles of Anatomy Trains are used by osteopaths, physical therapists, bodyworkers, massage therapists, personal trainers, yoga, Pilates, Gyrotonics, and other body-minded manual therapists and movement professionals. Anatomy Trains inspires these practitioners to work with holistic anatomy in treating system-wide patterns to provide improved client outcomes in terms of structure and function.   Website: anatomytrains.com   Email: [email protected]   Facebook: facebook.com/AnatomyTrains   Instagram: Instagram.com/anatomytrainsofficial   YouTube

A client has frozen shoulder: a painful, limiting condition, and she is prescribed a powerful drug (methylprednisolone) to help manage it. When it is appropriate for massage to enter this situation?   Resources:   Buchbinder, R. et al. “Short Course Prednisolone for Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder or Stiff Painful Shoulder): A Randomised, Double Blind, Placebo Controlled Trial.” Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases 63, no. 11.    Guler-Uysal F. and E. Kozanoglu. “Comparison of the Early Response to Two Methods of Rehabilitation in Adhesive Capsulitis.” Swiss Medical Weekly 134, no. 23–24 (2004): 353–58.    Jewell DV, DL Riddle and LR Thacker. “Interventions Associated with an Increased or Decreased Likelihood of Pain Reduction and Improved Function in Patients with Adhesive Capsulitis: a Retrospective Cohort Study. Physical Therapy 89, no. 5 (2009): 419–29.     Roberts, Jefferson R. “What is the Role of Oral Corticoids in the Treatment of Frozen Shoulder Syndrome (FSS) (Adhesive Capsulitis)?” Last modified November 12, 2020.    This podcast sponsored by:    Books of Discovery: www.booksofdiscovery.com    Host:    Ruth Werner: www.ruthwerner.com     Additional articles by Ruth Werner:    “COVID-19–Related Complications”    “Lipedema: the Skinny on Painful Fat,”    “Skipping a Beat: Cardiac Arrhythmias,” 

Massage & Bodywork columnist (Table Lessons) and MTF President Douglas Nelson discusses honoring the uniqueness of every therapeutic encounter and remaining open and curious to each client. We discuss the partnership between client and practitioner, outline strong leadership during the pandemic, and define the difference between excellence and art in the work.   Douglas Nelson is the founder and principal instructor for Precision Neuromuscular Therapy Seminars; president of the 20-therapist clinic BodyWork Associates in Champaign, Illinois; and president of the Massage Therapy Foundation. His clinic, seminars, and research endeavors explore the science behind his work. For more information, visit www.pnmt.org and www.massagetherapyfoundation.org.   This episode sponsored by:   ExpertVoice   Resources:   “Connecting the Dots: A Key to Massage Integration in the Health-Care System,” by Douglas Nelson, Massage & Bodywork, January/February 2021, page 30,

A young client has had dizzy spells and neck pain with stiffness for three years. His doctor can’t find anything wrong, and—huzzah!—suggests massage therapy to help. What is the source of his vertigo? Can massage help?   Resources:   Cho, D. K. et al. “Myofascial Pain Syndrome in Patients with Cervical Vertigo.” Journal of the Korean Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine 35, no 2: 243–49.   Krabak, B. J. et al. “Chronic Cervical Myofascial Pain Syndrome: Improvement in Dizziness and Pain with a Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation Program. A Pilot Study.” Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation 15, no 2 (2000): 83–7.   This podcast sponsored by:    Books of Discovery: www.booksofdiscovery.com    Pain in the App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id1473476636   Host:   Ruth Werner: www.ruthwerner.com     Additional articles by Ruth Werner:     “COVID-19–Related Complications”    “Lipedema: the Skinny on Painful Fat,”    “Skipping a Beat: Cardiac Arrhythmias,”     

Dr. Ben Benjamin offers his inspirational path toward massage therapy and beyond—a career driven by his consistent curiosity. From his early dance career, Benjamin became curious about the healing power of touch when working with a local manual therapist. This led to him developing his own techniques and opening practices in New York City and San Francisco. From there, Benjamin opened his own massage therapy school, emphasizing the same one-on-one supervision he was privy to in his training. Today, Benjamin’s work includes communication skills and boundaries, combined in his influential book The Ethics of Touch, and occasionally serving as an expert witness in cases of client and practitioner impropriety.    This episode sponsored by Pain in the App.   Ben Benjamin, PhD in sports medicine, has been practicing massage since 1963 and has been nationally recognized for his contributions to massage therapy, receiving an induction into the Massage Therapy Hall of Fame in 2010. With his years of experience as a therapist, educator, and author, Dr. Benjamin has been regarded as a voice of authority in the muscular therapy ­field. He was the founder and president of the Muscular Therapy Institute in Cambridge, Massachusetts, which began in 1974. Shortly after the Muscular Therapy Institute opened, Dr. Benjamin enhanced his practice by studying under Dr. James Cyriax, widely known for his pioneering work in orthopedic medicine. He has also integrated Aaron Mattes’ Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) techniques into his therapy. With a passion for helping individuals cope with and overcome pain, Dr. Benjamin has been lecturing internationally for more than four decades and written countless articles in publications such as Massage & Bodywork magazine. Dr. Benjamin is also the author of several works referenced by those educators and students in the field, such as Listen to Your Pain, Are You Tense?, Exercise Without Injury, and co-author of The Ethics of Touch and Conversation Transformation.   Resources:   “Clients Crossing Boundaries in the Treatment Room,” Massage & Bodywork, March/April 2020, page 54,  

In this episode, I explore a condition that is completely new to me, and you get to come along for the ride. A long-time client shows signs of some complicated neurological problems. Is it Parkinson’s? Is it hydrocephalus? Why not both?   Resources:   National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. “Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Information Page. Accessed January 2021.   Schneck, Michael J., “How is Parkinson’s Disease Differentiated from Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)?” Last modified October 19, 2018. Accessed January 2021.   Williams, Michael A. and Malm, Jan. “Diagnosis and Treatment of Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus.” Continuum 22, no. 2 (2016): 579–99.    Diagram showing a brain shunt

Author, educator, and spa owner Terrance Bonner joins the podcast to discuss his challenging road to become a bodyworker, his esthetics training that deepens his skill set, and his new book for aspiring entrepreneurs. His passion and commitment to practice massage in the face of life’s obstacles is an inspirational lesson for all practitioners.   This episode sponsored by ExpertVoice   Guest bio: Terrance Bonner is a massage therapist and esthetician practicing in Columbus, Mississippi. He is a Mississippi-approved continuing education provider for both massage and esthetics and is a licensed massage therapy instructor. He is the owner of The Glam Station and Spa and author of the recent book Determination + CORE Values = Success: A Business-Building Guidebook for New Wellness Entrepreneurs. For more information, visit www.theglamstationspa.com.   Resource: Determination + CORE Values = Success: A Business-Building Guidebook for New Wellness Entrepreneurs    

Today we take a deep dive . . . into the ear. We look at a client who had a sinus infection with lingering ear stuffiness. Magically, it resolved with massage! The MT naturally wants to know, “What happened? And can I make it happen again?”   Resources   Hayes, Kristin. “What Causes the Accumulation of Fluid in the Ear?” Verywell Health. Last modified November 2019. Accessed January 2021.   Hoffman, Matthew. “Picture of the Ear.” WebMD. Accessed January 2021.   Llewellyn, A. et al. (2014). “Interventions for Adult Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: A Dystematic Review.” Health Technology Assessment 18, no. 46. Accessed January 2021.   This podcast sponsored by:   Books of Discovery: www.booksofdiscovery.com   Anatomy Trains: www.anatomytrains.com   Host:   Ruth Werner: www.ruthwerner.com     Additional articles by Ruth Werner:   “COVID-19–Related Complications”

We close out our three-pod series with a Top 5 list of things to do for a great start to 2021. From looking at everything you do with fresh eyes, to the Pomodoro Technique, to our favorite podcasts, listen as we come up with ideas to support professional and personal self-improvement in the new year.   Darren Buford is editor-in-chief of Massage & Bodywork magazine and senior director of communications for ABMP.   Kristin Coverly is director of professional development for ABMP and a licensed massage therapist.   Colin Kelliher is audio producer for ABMP.   Top 5 Tips Review and re-do The Pomodoro Technique Learn something new Networking Colin’s favorite podcasts   Resources: Find Pomodoro examples at www.tomato-timer.com and www.pomofocus.io or on the Apple Watch.   Colin’s favorite podcasts: The $100 MBA, “Should You Set Goals for 2021?”  Super Soul Conversations, “Intention,” 

Join us for the second episode of our three-podcast series to set you up for success in the new year. Today we focus on skills to evaluate and reshape your practice. Learn a two-step process that will have you looking at your business—and life—in a new way and give you the tools and inspiration to improve them!   This episode sponsored by:   Anatomy Trains: www.anatomytrains.com   Books of Discovery: www.booksofdiscovery.com   Host bio:   Kristin Coverly is a licensed massage therapist, educator, and the director of professional education for ABMP.

This week begins a three-podcast push for practice improvements in the new year. We start with improving your written and speaking skills. Why? Because communicating well is a sign of respect for your audience and saying that you take what you do seriously. From emails to your service menu, from public presentations to your elevator pitch, how you write and speak is a reflection of your practice and your brand. Nine writing tips and three verbal tips follow!   This episode sponsored by   Anatomy Trains: www.anatomytrains.com   Books of Discovery: www.booksofdiscovery.com   Host bio:   Darren Buford is editor-in-chief of Massage & Bodywork magazine and senior director of communications for ABMP.   Recap   Written: Have an editing buddy. Write like you speak. Buy Strunk & White’s The Elements of Style Listen to Grammar Girl  Buy a dictionary Kill your darlings. Do not plagiarize! Read great stuff: The New Yorker Garden and Gun The Atlantic Harvard Business Review Journal.   Verbal: Listen more, speak less. Perfect your elevator speech. Join Toastmasters  

Thanks to our 2020 listeners! You’ve made this a special year to remember. We’ll strive to continue to bring you fresh and engaging content and interviews throughout the coming year. And we’re excited to announce that we’ll soon be bringing Meditate & Move from Facebook to The ABMP Podcast Network. More info to come soon!   2020 Sponsors:   We’d like to thank our 2020 sponsors:   Oakworks   Anatomy Trains   Books of Discovery   Yomassage   Hosts’ info:   Darren Buford is editor-in-chief of Massage & Bodywork magazine and senior director of communications for ABMP. Contact him at [email protected].   Kristin Coverly, LMT, is director of profession education for ABMP. Contact her at [email protected].

A massage therapist gets an early lesson on who is ultimately responsible for making decisions about client safety—hint, it is not always the doctor or the client! Sometimes our clinical decisions should be out of alignment with our client’s health-care providers. We need to analyze how to make these decisions and how to communicate with health-care teams for information and collaboration—not for permission.   This podcast sponsored by:    Books of Discovery   Anatomy Trains    Oakworks   Host:     Ruth Werner: www.ruthwerner.com     Additional articles by Ruth Werner:   “COVID-19–Related Complications”   “Lipedema: the Skinny on Painful Fat,”   “Skipping a Beat: Cardiac Arrhythmias,”     

The Reeds of Living Metta join us to talk about their journey toward self-care, living loving kindness, the power of Thailand, and the draw of Arizona’s healing powers. Find out how to claim more passion and power from your sessions, how to move from guarding to growing, and how to undo mental stress with doable daily self-care. Breathe, move, focus—the Reeds’ keys to healthy well-being.   Heath and Nicole Reed are co-founders of Living Metta and want everyone in the world to enjoy the experience of befriending their body. The Reeds lead workshops and retreats across the country and overseas and have been team-teaching touch and movement therapy for 16 years. In addition to live classes, the Reeds offer massage therapy and self-care videos, DVDs, and online trainings, which may be found at www.livingmetta.com.    Sponsor:   This episode sponsored by Oakworks and Anatomy Trains   Guest info:   Heath and Nicole Reed: https://livingmetta.com

A client training for a big event takes a fall and bruises his thigh. Now he wonders if foam rolling would help, and he has also convinced himself it’s a serious condition: compartment syndrome. He wants advice from his favorite provider. What’s a massage therapist/personal trainer to do?   Reference:   Dubois, B. and J.F. Esculier. “Soft-Tissue Injuries Simply Need PEACE and LOVE.” British Journal of Sports Medicine 54, no. 2 (2020): 72–3. Accessed December 2020.   First two days or so:   P: Protection E: Elevation A: Avoid anti-inflammatories C: Compression E: Education   &   After first two days:   L: Load O: Optimism V: Vascularization E: Exercise   This podcast sponsored by:   Books of Discovery   Anatomy Trains    Oakworks    Host:    Ruth Werner: www.ruthwerner.com     Additional articles by Ruth Werner:     “COVID-19–Related Complications”   “Skipping a Beat: Cardiac Arrhythmias,”    

Author and educator Laura Allen joins us to discuss her massage path and specialization in ethics and business education. From her partnership with her mentor Nina McIntosh to her Massage & Bodywork magazine column, Laura discusses overcoming ethical dilemmas, therapist boundaries, and policy and procedure creation.   Laura has been a licensed massage therapist since 1999 and a provider of continuing education since 2000. She is the author of numerous books and articles, including the fifth edition of The Educated Heart and One Year to a Successful Massage Therapy Practice. Laura is a 2011 inductee into the Massage Therapy Hall of Fame and was named American Massage Therapist of the Year at the 2011 American Massage Conference. Laura is currently the president of sales and marketing at CryoDerm, a family-owned company that makes plant-based pain relief and therapeutic massage products. Find out more about Laura at www.lauraallenmt.com.   Sponsor:   This episode sponsored by Oakworks and Anatomy Trains   Guest info:   Laura Allen: www.lauraallenmt.com  

A myofascial massage therapist develops a work-related injury. No one warned us about this one! In an effort to save his thumbs and wrists, he developed bursitis on his elbow. Listen for what he did to deal with it and preserve his career.   Resources:   “Olecranon Bursitis: The Knobbly Elbow.” Accessed December 2020.   Physiopedia. “Olecranon Bursitis.” Accessed December 2020.   This podcast sponsored by:    Books of Discovery: www.booksofdiscovery.com    Anatomy Trains: www.anatomytrains.com     Oakworks: www.oakworks.com     Host:     Ruth Werner: www.ruthwerner.com     Additional articles by Ruth Werner:     “COVID-19–Related Complications”    “Skipping a Beat: Cardiac Arrhythmias,”  

Shana Chivon is a reiki practitioner and educator and author on anti-racism and decolonization in health care. Listen as we learn about Shana’s Chakra RX approach to her practice and her passion for ensuring healing and wellness are accessible to everyone. Shana introduces listeners to the concept of decolonization and the power of applying a lens of inclusivity into everything we do, including representation in health, wellness, and self-care, and building trust among communities.    Shana Chivon is a passionate change agent who carries a mandate for liberation, a heart for progress, and a desire to disrupt the status quo. She is a veteran of the United States Air Force where she worked as a maintainer on the KC-135 Tanker at McConnell AFB in Wichita, Kansas. Currently, Shana works as an IT leader for a Wichita-based private company. In addition to her day job, she runs a successful consulting practice where she provides diversity, inclusion, and equity training. She works to provide education, resources, and training centered around defying the myth of black inferiority and dismantling oppressive power systems. For more information, visit www.shanachivon.com.   Sponsor:   This episode sponsored by Oakworks and Anatomy Trains    For more information:   Shana Chivon: www.shanachivon.com

A competitive barrel racer has multiple back surgeries for scoliosis. She has spinal fusions and Harrington rods that stabilize and immobilize her spine from her sacrum all the way up to T2. With her massage therapist’s help, she makes a big discovery about her function. Human bodies are amazing!   Resources:   Brooks, W. J., Krupinski, E. A., and Hawes, M. C. (2009). “Reversal of Childhood Idiopathic Ccoliosis in an Adult, Without Surgery: A Case Report and Literature Review.” Scoliosis 4, no. 27 (2009).    Dalton, Erik. “Scoliosis and Massage Therapy.” Accessed December 2020.   LeBauer, A., Brtalik, R., and Stowe, K. (2008). “The Effect of Myofascial Release (MFR) on an Adult with Idiopathic Scoliosis.” Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 12, no. 44, 356–63.   Luchau, Til and Whitney Lowe. “Scoliosis and Manual Therapy.” The Thinking Practitioner. Accessed December 2020.   “Scoliosis.” n.d. Accessed December 2020.    This podcast sponsored by:   Books of Discovery: www.booksofdiscovery.com    Anatomy Trains: www.anatomytrains.com     Oakworks: www.oakworks.com     Host:     Ruth Werner: www.ruthwerner.com     Additional articles by Ruth Werner:     “COVID-19–Related Complications”    “Skipping a Beat: Cardiac Arrhythmias,”

How have things changed from April, since we last spoke with Nathan? Were Hand & Stone Spa policies and procedures successful in reopening? What has MT and client response been like? Listen in as we check in and find out about spa sanitation, volume, and preparedness regarding COVID case increase nationwide.   Nathan Nordstrom became a massage therapist in 2001. He is licensed in several states and is a board-certified massage therapist. He has taught massage therapists since 2004 and is a nationally recognized continuing education provider. As a massage therapist, he has worked in many settings over the years. He teaches classes in the application of ethics in daily life and advanced anatomy classes for massage therapists. He has served as a leader in many ways in the massage industry, and he is now the director of massage therapy for Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa.    Sponsor:   This episode sponsored by Oakworks and Anatomy Trains   For more information:   Hand & Stone: www.handandstone.com   Ep 4 – Conversations in Quarantine – Interview with Nathan Nordstrom   Ep 5 – Conversations in Quarantine – Interview with Nathan Nordstrom – Part 2  

Can a client with extensive scarring from multiple surgeries for breast cancer have improved pain and range of motion with just a few sessions? It seems implausible, but it happens more than you’d think.   Helpful resources:   Dynamic angular petrissage on YouTube    Massage Therapy Without Borders   Scar Tissue Management CE Course   Traumatic Scar Tissue Management   Notes:   Franchelli, S. et al. (2012). “Breast Implant Infections after Surgical Reconstruction in Patients with Breast Cancer: Assessment of Risk Factors and Pathogens over Extended Post-Operative Observation.” Surgical Infections 13, no. 33 (2012): 154–58.    Lewis, P. A., & Cunningham, J. E. (2016). “Dynamic Angular Petrissage as Treatment for Axillary Web Syndrome Occurring after Surgery for Breast Cancer: A Case Report.” International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork 9, no. 2 (2016): 28–37.   Sinha, I. et al. (2017). “Late Surgical Site Infection in Immediate Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction.” Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery 139, no. 1 (2017): 20–8.    Wilk, I. et al. (2015). “Application of Tensegrity Massage to Relive Complications After Mastectomy—Case Report.” Rehabilitation Nursing: The Official Journal of the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses 40, no. 5 (2015): 294–304.   This podcast sponsored by:   Books of Discovery   Anatomy Trains   Oakworks   Host:   Ruth Werner   Additional articles by Ruth Werner:   “COVID-19–Related Complications”   “Skipping a Beat: Cardiac Arrhythmias,”  

On the heels of the encouraging information from the past two weeks, and information about Pfizer’s and Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccines and their effectiveness, we wanted to check in with our good friend Ruth Werner to get her opinion. We discuss the current vaccines in production and the new technology used behind their speedy creation. We also dive into several things we still don’t know, including long-term effectiveness, virus mutation, and those populations who still haven’t been included in the Phase 3 testing, including children, those over 85 years of age, and pregnant women. Ruth Werner is a former massage therapist, a writer, and an NCBTMB-approved continuing education provider. She wrote A Massage Therapist’s Guide to Pathology, is a columnist for Massage & Bodywork magazine, and the podcast host of I Have a Client Who … on the ABMP Podcast Network.   Sponsor:   This episode sponsored by Oakworks and Anatomy Trains    For more information:   Ruth Werner   The ABMP Podcast Network

In this episode, I revisit a previous podcast with a surprising outcome, I share a story-within-a-story, and I say some things that are sometimes hard to hear. This I Have a Client Who has surprises, uncomfortable truths, and a wish for my very own massage therapy super-power: ultrasound ears.   This podcast sponsored by:   Books of Discovery   Anatomy Trains   Oakworks   Host:   Ruth Werner   Additional articles by Ruth Werner:   “COVID-19–Related Complications”   “Skipping a Beat: Cardiac Arrhythmias,”

Bridging the worlds of manual and movement therapies can be a boon to both practitioner and client. Join us to hear Dr. Joe Muscolino break down his cover feature in the latest Massage & Bodywork magazine. Dr. Muscolino was encouraged by this topic after visiting Singapore on a teaching and education trip several years ago. There, he noticed the majority of his class consisted of fitness trainers rather than manual therapists. Listen in to discover how combining the strengthening of muscles with soft-tissue manipulation can perhaps create the best of both worlds.   Dr. Joe Muscolino has been a manual and movement therapy educator for more than 30 years. He is the author of The Muscular System Manual; The Muscle and Bone Palpation Manual with Trigger Points, Referral Patterns, and Stretching; and Kinesiology. He teaches continuing education workshops around the world, including a certification in Clinical Orthopedic Manual Therapy, and has created LearnMuscles Continuing Education, a video streaming subscription service for manual and movement professionals, with seven new video lessons added each week. And he has created Muscle Anatomy Master Class, the most comprehensive and detailed muscle anatomy online class in the world, with each muscle taught in five distinct video lessons. Visit learnmuscles.com for more information.    Sponsor:   This episode sponsored by Oakworks and Anatomy Trains   For more information:   “Combining Manual & Movement Therapies,” by Dr. Joe Muscolino, Massage & Bodywork magazine, November/December 2020, page 56,

An adult client has Tourette’s syndrome with tics that include various jumps and vocalizations. Her massage therapist notices a surprising change with supine neck work and a traditional craniosacral hold. What is Tourette’s syndrome? What are tics? And why might massage therapy have any kind of influence here? This is a mystery that deserves some attention.   Helpful resources:   Kenney, C. et al. “Tourette’s Syndrome.” American Family Physician 77, no. 5 (2008): 651–58.   Kompoliti, K. et al. “Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use in Gilles de la Tourette Syndrome.” Movement Disorders: Official Journal of the Movement Disorder Society 24, no. 13 (2009): 2015–19.   Pringsheim, T., et al. (2007). “Tourette Syndrome and Dystonia.” Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry 78, no. 5 (2007): 544.   Robertson, William C. “Tourette Syndrome and Other Tic Disorders: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology.” Last updated May 30, 2019. Accessed November 2020.    “Tourette Syndrome Treatments.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Last updated May 13, 2020. Accessed November 2020.   “What is Tourette.” (n.d.). “Tourette Association of America.” Accessed November 2020.   This podcast sponsored by:   Books of Discovery   Anatomy Trains   Oakworks   Host:   Ruth Werner   Additional articles by Ruth Werner:   “COVID-19–Related Complications”    “Skipping a Beat: Cardiac Arrhythmias,”   

Alex Caspero joins the podcast to discuss her love of healthy food and how that spurred her to become a registered dietician. Alex tells us about how to become better food planners, how to batch cook, and how making one small change in your diet a day can have a profound effect in the long-term. We discuss boredom eating, maintaining a healthy diet during a pandemic, her take on a variety of diets (keto, periodic fasting, etc.), and how to encourage your children to become healthy eaters too.     Alex Caspero is a St. Louis-based registered dietician, specializing in plant-based diets, weight management, and sports nutrition. Her blog Delish Knowledge focuses on simple, healthy recipes. Alex is the author of Fresh Italian Cooking for the New Generation. For more info, visit www.delishknoweledge.com.     This episode sponsored by:   Anatomy Trains   Oakworks   For more information:   “The Skinny on Dieting,” by Alex Caspero, ASCP Skin Deep, September/October 2020, page 27,  

A pregnant client vomits and loses consciousness in the middle of a massage. The therapist shows remarkable presence of mind and everything worked out fine—but what on earth happened? Would it have been possible to predict such a thing?   We call out the big guns for this one: Carole Osborne, author of Pre- and Perinatal Massage Therapy, a Comprehensive guide to Prenatal, Labor, and Postpartum Practice, took some time to talk me through this so I could bring some true expertise to this discussion.   Links:   For more information about Carole Osborne   “Breathing, Positioning & Blood Clots: Doing No Harm with Prenatal and Postpartum Massage Therapy During the Coronavirus Pandemic,” by Carole Osborne, Massage & Bodywork magazine, September/October 2020, page 54,   This podcast sponsored by:   Books of Discovery   Anatomy Trains   Host:   Ruth Werner   Additional articles by Ruth Werner:   “COVID-19–Related Complications”    “Skipping a Beat: Cardiac Arrhythmias,” 

Massage therapists have the tools clients need, and human touch is the outlet for our anxiety, loneliness, and depression. Erik takes us through valuable research, then guides us on how to down-regulate the stress response. From what to look for when clients enter your practice; to making them feel comfortable; to your communication, eye contact, and first strokes, Erik lets us in to his insights garnered over many years of bodywork practice. Learn about the Ida Rolf blanket tuck and the 50/70 rule.   Sponsor:   This episode sponsored by Anatomy Trains   Guest:   Erik is the executive director of the Freedom from Pain Institute. Educated in massage, osteopathy, and Rolfing, he has maintained a practice in Oklahoma City for more than three decades. Erik is also a columnist for Massage & Bodywork magazine. You can find his work each issue in the Myoskeletal Alignment Techniques column. For more information, visit erikdalton.com     For more information:   “Rethinking the Body’s Stress Response,” Erik Dalton, PhD, Massage & Bodywork magazine, September/October 2020, page 88.

A massage therapist has an opinion about when to work after a client’s flu shot. Her colleague has a different opinion. Who is right, and based on what data? Join me for a discussion of flu shots, appropriate delays (or not) for massage therapy, and intriguing possibilities for future research.   Links:   Berbari, G. (n.d.). “Experts Say There Might Be A Hidden Benefit To Hitting The Gym Right After Your Flu Shot. Elite Daily. Accessed October 23, 2020.   “Flu Shots Boosted by Exercise. (n.d.). The University of Sydney. Accessed October 23, 2020.   This podcast sponsored by:   Books of Discovery   Anatomy Trains    Host:   Ruth Werner   Additional articles by Ruth Werner:   “COVID-19–Related Complications”    “Skipping a Beat: Cardiac Arrhythmias,” 

What’s the difference between petting our dogs and cats vs. offering them pet massage? Northwest School of Animal Massage founder Lola Michelin joins the podcast to discuss hands-on skills for working with animals, training, and contraindications. We also dip into communication strategies with our four-legged friends, as well as safety protocols. We finish by talking about marketing these services and what to charge.   Sponsor:   This episode sponsored by Anatomy Trains   Guest:   Lola Michelin founded the Northwest School of Animal Massage in 2001. She has practiced animal massage for over 30 years and massage for people for 17 of those years. A graduate of the animal science program at Michigan State University, she has work experience in both the veterinarian and zoological fields. For more information, visit Northwest School of Animal Massage.

Two clients. Two left legs that are swollen and hot. Two surprising outcomes. We explore deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and venous thromboembolism, and even take a quick peek at aortic aneurysm. Lots of long words in this one, and lots of opinions from me.   Links:   Sefton, J. M., Yarar, C., Berry, J. W., and Pascoe, D. D. (2010). “Therapeutic Massage of the Neck and Shoulders Produces Changes in Peripheral Blood Flow When Assessed with Dynamic Infrared Thermography.” Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (New York, N.Y.), 16, no. 7, 723–32.    Shoemaker, J. K., Tiidus, P. M., and Mader, R. (1997). “Failure of Manual Massage to Alter Limb Blood Flow: Measures by Doppler Ultrasound.” Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 29, no. 5, 610–14.    Werner, Ruth. “‘Low Risk’ Does Not Equal ‘No Risk’”: An Overview of Reports of Adverse Events.” Massage & Bodywork magazine, May/June 2020.   This podcast sponsored by:   Books of Discovery   Anatomy Trains   Host:   Ruth Werner   Additional articles by Ruth Werner:   “COVID-19–Related Complications”    “Skipping a Beat: Cardiac Arrhythmias,” 

Angie Parris-Raney is Chopra Center Certified in meditation and ayurvedic lifestyle. She joins the podcast to give us a brief introduction to ayurveda and the science of conscious-based living. Angie discusses the value of a daily meditation practice, gives tips for surviving in the digital age, offers suggestions for daily self-massage, and provides ideas for eating to support a healthy immune system. Most importantly, Angie encourages us to laugh each day, saying that a sense of humor is good medicine.   Sponsor:   This episode sponsored by Anatomy Trains   Guest Bios: Angie Parris-Raney is a licensed massage therapist and is the advertising director for ABMP. Angie is Chopra Center Certified in meditation and ayurveda lifestyle. Her training explores physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health. You can also see Angie in ABMP’s Meditate & Move series that runs every Wednesday on Facebook. Angie is also the founder of the nonprofit Project Inti, an organization that provides aid to low income Peruvian families and communities.   For more information   Meditate & Move    “Support Your Immune System: 7 Things We Can Do For Ourselves,” Body Sense magazine, Spring 2020, page 6

Allissa Haines and Michael Reynolds join the podcast to discuss the wake-up call that the pandemic served. COVID magnified what MTs were doing well or poorly pre-shutdowns. Did you have your earnings in order? Did you reach out and get the resources that were available? Did you treat your business like a business? Find your weaknesses and hone them in preparation for 2021 and beyond.   Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Anatomy Trains   Guest Bios: Allissa Haines and Michael Reynolds make up the wonder duo behind Massage Business Blueprint. Allissa is a practicing massage therapist of 15 years and self-described Director of Shenanigans at Massage Business Blueprint. Michael is a former massage therapist, financial advisor and tech entrepreneur, and self-described Director of Nerdy Things at Massage Business Blueprint. Both happen to be authors for Massage & Bodywork magazine and are columnists of the Blueprint for Success column. For more info about them, please visit Massage Business Blueprint. For more info about their year-long financial series, click here. Find their wonderful article “Financially Surviving COVID-19” that was featured in the Special Issue of Massage & Bodywork.   For more information   “Mind Your Money,” webinar   “Where Do We Go From Here,” Massage & Bodywork magazine, September/October 2020, page 14,

We’re living in unprecedented times. Anne Williams joins us to explain how essential oils can help keep us supported. Whether using them for stimulation or sedation or focus or memory, Anne guides listeners through the science and history of many essential oils, including her four favorite for right now.   Sponsor:   This episode sponsored by Anatomy Trains   Guest Bio:   Anne Williams is the director of education and cofounder with Eric Brown of Massage Mastery Online, specializing in digital textbooks for 21st century massage therapists. Anne has been a licensed massage practitioner for 23 years, and is a former esthetician, certified reflexologist, clinical hypnotherapist, former registered counselor, aromatherapist, spa consultant, author, and educator. She is the former director of education for Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP), former director of education for Ashmead College, and has served on the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards’ (FSMTB) test writing committee, serving as project leader for the Entry-Level Analysis Project. She is the author of Spa Bodywork: A Guide for Massage Therapists and Massage Mastery: From Student to Professional.   For more info:   “What’s Your Ethics IQ? Part 1,” by Anne Williams and Karrie Osborn, Massage & Bodywork magazine, November/December 2016, page 40, 

Bunions? Calcifications? Does it make a difference? A massage therapist isn’t sure what’s going on with her client’s foot and wants to know if it even matters. We will unpeel the layers of this situation to revisit bunions, Wolff’s law, osteoarthritis, and more. Come explore this gynglimoarthrodial joint with me—and no, I didn’t make up that word!   Resources:   Injuries to the Great Toe   Bunion Progression Scale   This podcast sponsored by:   Books of Discovery    Anatomy Trains   Host:   Ruth Werner   “COVID-19–Related Complications” 

Yomassage co-founders Katherine and Tiffany discuss the formation of their unique offering, what occurs during a session, and the growth of their “Yo-mi” community. Blending touch, stretch, and breath, Yomassage aims to increase the growth of massage through healthy, clothed touch, while also increasing bodyworkers’ per-session income and career longevity.   This episode sponsored by   Anatomy Trains   Guests bios:   Katherine Parker is a graduate from the University of Texas with a degree in Arabic and Middle Eastern studies, a former yoga studio owner, and cofounder of Yomassage. Tiffany Ryan has a PhD in social work, is a massage therapist, and is cofounder of Yomassage.   For more info:   “Yomassage: Combining Yoga, Massage, and Mindfulness for a Healthy Practice,” Massage & Bodywork magazine, March/April 2019, page 58

A massage therapist is in a rather severe bike accident, being hit by a vehicle—on purpose. In addition to his other injuries, he develops a sudden onset of episodes of skin lesions and severe joint pain that persists to this day. What in the world is going on here, and what can he do about it? This is an inspiring story of remarkable resilience.   General information on psoriatic arthritis:   psoriasis.org/about-psoriatic-arthritis/ healthline.com/health/psoriatic-arthritis   Video:   youtube.com/watch?v=M-E-aXxxRaA&t=22s   This podcast sponsored by:   Books of Discovery   Anatomy Trains    Host:   Ruth Werner   “COVID-19–Related Complications” 

Allison Denney, The Rebel MT, joins the podcast to give us insight into what it means to be a rebel. From starting her wildly popular YouTube channel, to creating her own products, to building a brand, Allison lives up to the “believe in yourself” mantra. Her mission is to give MTs the tools to create their own paths and have the power to speak their voices.   This episode sponsored by   Anatomy Trains   Guest bio:   Allison Denney is a certified massage therapist and certified YouTuber. You can find her massage tutorials at YouTube.com/RebelMassage. She is also passionate about creating products that are kind, simple, and productive for therapists to use in their practices. Her products, along with access to her blog and CE opportunities, can be found at RebelMassage.com.   Read Allison’s columns in Massage & Bodywork magazine: 

A client has chronic low-back pain, headaches, migraines, and a history of some serious surgeries. We take a close look at one of them: spinal fusion at L4-L5. What is this massage therapist doing now? What might he do in the future? It turns out there are a lot of options!   Case study of a client with a spinal fusion:   Keller, G. (2012). “The Effects of Massage Therapy after Decompression and Fusion Surgery of the Lumbar Spine: A Case Study.” International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork, 5, no. 4, 3–8.    Information on spinal fusion procedures:   General information https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/spinal-fusion/ https://www.spine-health.com/treatment/spinal-fusion/lumbar-spinal-fusion-surgery   Video spine-health.com/video/spine-fusion-surgery-video   Selected research on massage therapy and scar tissue:   Ault, P., Plaza, A., and Paratz, J. (2018). “Scar Massage for Hypertrophic Burns Scarring—A Systematic Review.” Burns: Journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries, 44, no. 1), 24–38.  Shin, T. M., and Bordeaux, J. S. (2012). “The Role of Massage in Scar Management: A Literature Review.” Dermatologic Surgery: Official Publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.], 38, no. 3, 414–23.    Continuing education on massage therapy and scar tissue:   Scar Tissue Management (3-part series):    Scar Management: Principles, Practice, and Protocol (The Beginning):    This podcast sponsored by:   Books of Discovery   Anatomy Trains   Host:   Ruth Werner

Tom Myers joins the podcast to chat about his bodywork background, extending the longevity of your bodywork career (“pay attention!”), kicking clients out of your practice (seriously), remaining invigorated, the value of dissection labs, and working with the originals.   This episode sponsored by:   Anatomy Trains   Guest bio:   Tom Myers directs Anatomy Trains, which offers certification in structural integration in the United States, Australia, and Europe, as well as short courses in manual therapy and functional anatomy worldwide. Tom is the author of Anatomy Trains and co-author of Fascial Release for Structural Balance. The Anatomy Trains myofascial meridians, which connect the muscles through the fascial fabric, is increasingly employed in a wide variety of rehabilitation and performance enhancement modalities. Tom studied directly with Ida Rolf and Moshe Feldenkrais, as well as Buckminster Fuller, movement luminaries, and European osteopaths. He has practiced structural integration for over 40 years in a wide variety of clinical and cultural settings. Learn more at www.anatomytrains.com.   For more info:   “Structural Integration 2.0,” Massage & Bodywork magazine, May/June 2019, page 78: 

In this episode, a client has lipedema—a painful condition with enlarged fat cells that won’t ever shrink or go away by themselves, and it’s probably going to get worse. It turns out that massage therapy could be helpful with the right kind of education and background. Fortunately, we found a great resource!   Lipedema resources:   Kathleen Lisson, Certified Lymphedema Therapist    Lipedema Treatment Guide   General information:   Understanding Fibrosis in Lipedema: Inflamed Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue (SAT), and Nodules   This podcast sponsored by:   Books of Discovery   Anatomy Trains    Host:   Ruth Werner   “COVID-19–Related Complications” 

Eric Stephenson takes us inside Elements Massage weathering the pandemic. From establishing new protocols to examining client interaction, Elements Massage’s safety committee worked to build safety standards, client reassurance, and personal connection in a time of isolation. The result: with more than 450,000 massages given in their 250 clinics since May 1, Elements Massage has a .01% COVID-19 positive connection rate with their studios, and zero outbreaks at any studio to date. Eric also discusses his life mission of increasing MT career longevity in the profession and provides some silver-lining optimism for the future of bodywork.   This episode sponsored by:   Anatomy Trains   Guest bio:   Eric Stephenson is a 20-year massage veteran and Chief Wellness Officer for Elements Massage, a 250-unit franchise system headquartered in Denver, Colorado. Eric is also Co-Founder of imassage, Inc. in Delray Beach, Florida, an education and consulting company dedicated to extending the careers of massage therapists and spa practitioners through customized continuing education focusing on preventing injury and workers’ compensation claims. Eric creates continuing education specializing in teaching Deep Tissue Massage that doesn’t harm the therapist or the client. All of his workshops focus on saving your hands with his “No Thumbs!” approach and cord body mechanics that help prolong MTs’ careers. In 2014, he joined the Board of Directors of the International Spa Association (ISPA) in Lexington, Kentucky. His experience as an entrepreneur, consultant, and speaker in the wellness industry have taken him around the world.

This episode tells the story of a client who is approaching the end of her life. Cancer metastasis to her brain has led to some language difficulties. We will talk a bit about oncology massage therapy, palliative care, Cyberknife surgery, and cerebral shunts. But the main lesson here is about patience and presence with people who have some communication challenges.   Links:   For more on CyberKnife technology   For more on cerebral shunts   Diagram showing a brain shunt   For more on education about massage for cancer patients:   Society for Oncology Massage   Tracy Walton & Associates   Healwell   For more on education about massage therapy in hospice care:   Healwell   This podcast sponsored by:   Books of Discovery   Anatomy Trains   Host: Ruth Werner: www.ruthwerner.com

Send your future questions to [email protected].   The podcast sponsored by:   Anatomy Trains   Guests:   Eric Stephenson is a 20-year massage veteran and Chief Wellness Officer for Elements Massage. Eric is also Co-Founder of imassage, Inc., an education and consulting company dedicated to extending the careers of massage therapists and spa practitioners through customized continuing education focusing on preventing injury and workers’ compensation claims. In 2014, Eric joined the Board of Directors of the International Spa Association.    Ruth Werner is a former massage therapist, a writer, and an NCBTMB-approved continuing education provider. She wrote A Massage Therapist’s Guide to Pathology, now in its seventh edition, which is used in massage schools worldwide. Werner is also a long-time Massage & Bodywork columnist, most notably of the Pathology Perspectives column.    Laura Embleton is Director of Government Relations for ABMP.     Debbie Higdon is Risk Management/Special Services for ABMP.   Les Sweeney is President of ABMP.   Links:    Werner’s books are available at Books of Discovery   Ruth Werner   Elements Massage    

In this episode, a client might be disappointed. A therapist is very concerned. And we don’t know what will happen next. When a “pinched nerve” that has been quiet for six months suddenly creates symptoms in the middle of a massage, what’s a therapist to do? We will talk about what could be going on here (including some fascinating things about nerve-generated pain), and what the best next steps could be.   This podcast sponsored by:   Books of Discovery   Anatomy Trains   Host:   Ruth Werner

Recent events have turned our world upside down. Our routines have been altered, our freedoms have been compromised, and fear of harm is at an all-time high. It’s natural to feel powerful emotions like stress, sadness, and grief in times like these. In this episode, author and instructor Cindy Williams, LMT, talks about what happens when these emotions become too powerful or uncomfortable to manage and get buried beneath the surface. Williams discusses the outward—and hidden—signs and symptoms of suffering, and the unique opportunity massage therapists and bodyworkers have to assist their clients in becoming conscious of the emotions stored in the tissues of their body so that they can be released. Williams also shares phrases to use to help clients become more in tune with what they may be feeling in order to take the client out of the narrative in their head and connect the experience to a sensation in their body, so they can stop thinking and start feeling.       This episode is sponsored by:   Anatomy Trains   Links:   “Surfacing Hidden Suffering” by Cindy Williams