What
does Certified Orthopedic Massage mean? First,
I'll begin by writing about orthopedic massage. Orthopedic massage is a system
used within a particular type of training to help clients find relief for certain
conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, plantar fasciitis, knee pain, hip
pain, low back pain and generally any pain caused by dysfunction of the soft-tissues
or muscles of the body. So, orthopedic massage really isn't one specific technique,
but rather an understanding of a set of principles and how to best use them for
the result in the relief of disorders and dysfunction of the musculoskeletal system.
Orthopedics
is the branch of medical science that deals with prevention or correction of disorders
involving locomotor structures of the body especially the skeleton, joints, muscles,
fascia and other supporting structures such as ligaments and cartilage (1).
Thus, orthopedic massage is a modality (or type) of massage that seeks to address
orthopedic conditions (those pain and injuries affecting the locomotor of
soft tissues) (2). There
are four basic components to orthopedic massage and they include: 1.
Assessment - It
is actually considered out of the scope of practice (beyond the training) of a
massage therapist to diagnose any condition. Assessment does not mean the therapist
is diagnosing your condition, it is used as a means for the therapist to determine
which specific massage tecnique/s would be most effective and where
the massage techniques are best utilized for the most effective benefit in relieving
pain. 2.
Matching the type of massage applied to the
type of injury or dysfunction - Each
type of massage technique, whether it be myofascial release, trigger point therapy,
or friction therapy results in a specific outcome created within the tissues of
the body, or physiological effect. For example, if a condition is caused by nerve
compression ( such as carpal tunnel), a technique like friction may further irritate
the nerve creating more discomfort. A therapist trained in orthopedic massage
will understand which type of massage is most beneficial to help relieve pressure
from the compressed nerve. So basically, an orthopedic massage therapist will
understand which techniques will aggravate the condition and which ones are helpful. 3.
Treatment adaptability - The
orthopedic massage therapist is educated in multiple techniques used to relieve
injury and pain. Being trained in a variety of techniques, the therapist can choose
from their "toolbox" which one the client will respond best. Every body is different
and what might work for one client, may not work for another. 4.
Appropriate use of rehabilitation protocol - The
typical protocol for rehabilitation from an injury is: normalize soft tissue function;
improve flexibility; restore proper movement patterns; strengthen and condition
tissues (3).
There are certain aspects to this protocol that are considered out of scope of
practice for the typical massage therapist. However, the therapist trained in
orthopedic massage principles will have a referral network in place to be able
to refer the client to another healthcare provider for restoring movement patterns,
strengthening and conditioning exercises.
In
order to obtain a certification in orthopedic massage, I have completed 120 hours
of orthopedic massage training through the Orthopedic Massage Research Institute
(OMERI, founded by Whitney Lowe) and passed a certification exam. My training
through OMERI has focused on being able to utilize assessment tools and understanding
the causes and symptoms of the condition as well as developing an understanding
of which technique should be used to aid the healing process.
I
have also furthered my training with 40 hours of James Waslaski's orthopedic
massage therapy which deals with a more detailed use of techniques and how
they are applied to orthopedic conditions (you can read HERE
to learn more about James Waslaski's work).
As
of this time, I am the only massage therapist in San Diego with this type of training.
So,
hopefully that helps you to maybe understand a little more about what orthopedic
massage is and how it can help you. If you have any questions, feel free to ask!
References
1.
Thomas C. Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary. 15th ed. Philadelphia: F.A. Davis
Company; 1987
2.
Lowe, Whitney. Orthopedic Massage Theory and Technique. 2nd ed. Elsevier; 2009
3.
Lowe, Whitney. Orthopedic Massage Theory and Technique. 2nd ed. Elsevier; 2009 |
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