Deep Tissue Massage: Techniques for the Upper Body

Theoretical and anatomical information: Understanding the relationship of the pelvic girdle and its transition to the spine including muscular and fascial influences, the sacrum, the spine as a connection to the cranium and the relationship of the ribs and appendicular skeleton (shoulder girdle and arms). Palpation and bodyreading to increase skills of determining where restrictions are inhibiting movement or causing pain.

Protocols & treatment of most common issues in upper body that are encountered in a bodywork practice:

• muscular issues of the back: major muscles of the bank including quadratus lumborum, erector spinae, latissimus dorsi, rhomboids, trapezius, levator scapula

• spinal mechanics of the entire spine and techniques to free vertebrae from restrictions for improved movement and mobilising ribs

• working with the anterior abdomen and thorax: working with breath and the diaphragm and techniques for the chest work to free the shoulder girdle and arms from anterior restrictions

• posterior thoracic techniques: working to free the scapula from the ribs and rotator cuff techniques

• freeing the arms including techniques for tennis and golfers' elbow and the carpal tunnel

• anterior and posterior neck work including techniques to work with cervical vertebrae for better mobility

• work with the skull, including introductory work with the jaw

Prerequisites: No specific except a bodywork certification, although highly suggested that students be familiar with structural massage issues and working with fascial strain patterns in a deep manner.

Teacher: Art Riggs

Relevant articles:

• Treating the Knee and Lower Extremities

• Deep Tissue Massage: Part 1 - The Tools

• Deep Tissue Massage: Part 2 - Stroke Intention

• Deep Tissue Massage: Part 3 - Body Positioning

• Some Thoughts About Pain in Bodywork: Part 1 - Your Relationship with Your Clients