Are we really getting to the source of the client’s issues or are we only addressing the referred pain and giving a temporary solution to an ongoing issue. For example, if a client comes to you with stiff neck and shoulders, or reports numbness in the hand or lower leg. what would you do next? Pause for a moment and ask yourself , “what do I usually do in each of these situations?” Do you say to yourself, “I have seen this before. I know what to do.” Do you ask the client to go directly on the table or chair so you can test out your new modality.
Do you find yourself bypassing the fundamental and important pre and post assessment of the client which should be as natural to therapists as a reflex response. Void of assessment, how do you know you are actually helping and not adding fuel to the fire. I believe our assessment and palpation of client issues are fundamental which (we)therapists need to use each and every time a client come to see us. Implementation of these skills not only help to give you a base line from which to measure the efficacy of the treatment, but more importantly, the assessment will give you a better idea as to which structures to address. Assessment helps support your reasoning and rational behind the modalities and techniques used. Is the assessment part of your treatment?
Hi, I’m Paul Lewis and welcome to my very first post here on MassageMag.com. I would like to say thank you to Massage Magazine for this opportunity to be included with this group of talented bloggers and experts. This blog will be focusing on various topics related to massage therapy including complicated case studies, techniques with proven success and the like. I will try my best to respond to questions or comments at least once per week, usually on Sundays.
I would like to tell you a bit about myself in hope that, you will feel comfortable enough to share your thoughts, post your comments and ask questions. I hope that we can learn from each other and share experiences which only serve to better our profession.
I have been a fitness instructor for over 20 years and currently instruct a fitness class one day per week. This class focuses on cardiovascular, strength, coordination, proprioception and movement. I have lead classes and instructed master classes in movement and fitness in Canada, Japan and the United States. As a Registered Massage Therapist, I am quite active treating clients at my home clinic, outcalls to hospitals, private homes and corporations.
I incorporate my 2 decades of Aikido training and knowledge into my treatment approach. I run about 3 times per week and I hope to run my first marathon someday.
My activities also include volunteering massage support at sporting events and charities including supervision of student therapists.
My continual clinical experiences include, Guillain-Barré Syndrome, leg lengthening, pregnancy, hip replacements, knee replacements, MVAs, mastectomy, spinal chord injury, TMJ, etc. I am no stranger to the continuing education field. Just last year, I was able to present 11 workshops. I am an approved provider in the United States, Canada and Great Britain. This year I am scheduled to present various Advanced Table and Chair workshops in Canada, United States, Japan and Great Britain.
My knowledge and experiences I hope to share with you through this blog. When you decide to submit, you can choose to have your name and location published or left anonymous – it is totally up to you. Please submit your questions to me at massagemag@paullewis.ca or www.paullewis.ca
Write ASK Paul in the subject line. Also be sure to let me know if and how you want to be identified should your submission be posted.
My first official post will be coming soon. Talk to you soon..
