● The solution would be to restore balance between the forces of tension and compression. ● Treating the anterior chest and upper back may seem appropriate but a focus on local body parts alone will not ensure sustained success. ● A combination of local changes and global re- enforcement, with movement education, can bring about a new soft tissue pattern that permits the whole structure to gradually change and sustain a more useful pattern ● This new orientation results in less pain and the possibility of reversing the downward spiral to an upward one; benefiting the whole organism. ● Any tension change within the myofascial system becomes a whole body event as the fascia translates tension signals throughout the whole body system (Sharkley, 2015). Biotensegrity deserves continued study and can be an important model for massage and bodywork therapists because it applies the basic foundations of body movement and structure. Understanding biotensegrity will increase knowledge of anatomy, structure, function and underlying logic of “body architecture” that forms the context of therapeutic benefits (Sharkley, 2015). As with any procedure the therapist must carefully study the modality to ascertain the benefits and risks for clients and receive the appropriate training and credentials prior to implementing any strategies with clients.
The biotensegrity model rejects the idea that the skeleton is the framework for the soft tissues and the limbs are not a simple collection of rigid body segments held together by soft tissues (Sharkley, 2015). These segments are interconnected by non-linear connectors like cartilage, joint capsules and ligaments, which are integrated within the active motor system that includes the muscles and tendons (Sharkley, 2015). Biotensegrity massage therapy involves manual manipulation of soft tissues that incorporates muscles, connective tissue or fascia, tendons, ligaments, and joints. It is used to treat the problems associated with strains and overuse issues that result in pain. The principles of biotensegrity require a whole body, whole person approach as in the following example of the common problems caused by rounded shoulders: ● In this case, excessive compression is being exerted anteriorly while excessive tension is experienced posteriorly. This appears as “shortening” at the front and “overly long” tissues at the back. ● Joint space becomes compromised, fascia thickens to support the new posture, and bones and other soft tissues can drift out of alignment if such a situation continues without attention. ● The body adopts posture referred to as a “compensatory pattern”. ● Forces on the body may not be distributed appropriately creating additional strain and a downward spiral throughout the entire organism.
THE FUTURE OF MASSAGE AND ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS
of massage and bodywork therapists to help clients achieve their goals for improved health. Imagine the benefits to clients who could visit a multidisciplinary clinic to access, massage and bodywork therapists, physical and occupational therapists, sports chiropractors, athletic trainers, acupuncturists, and other healthcare providers. A collaborative approach would provide a more cohesive system of health care and eliminating gaps in treatment or redundant treatment that may occur when the client is seeing multiple providers who are not communicating or practicing as collaborative partners. Not only would clients receive more comprehensive care but would benefit from the convenience and easy access, especially for clients with physical disabilities. Health care providers in the same proximity could communicate and work together to provide optimum care in less time. They could coordinate tests, consult on diagnosis and treatment and conduct more comprehensive progress assessments. Decisions on treatment would be based on a wealth of data from the coordinated treatment team rather than a fragmented system where important information may not be communicated in a timely manner.
The World Health Organization (WHO) predicts that by 2020 mental health issues, including stress will be the second leading cause of mental health issues resulting significant demands on healthcare services and placing an economic strain across the globe due to lost work days and workplace accidents (World Health Organization, 2014). The combination of conventional medicine combined with complementary and alternative forms of medicine, which includes massage and body work therapy, is referred to as “integrated” treatment (3B Scientific Therapy and Wellness Insight, 2016). There is a growing trend in the U.S. and the United Kingdom toward an integrated approach for the wellbeing of the patient. Almost half of massage treatment was related to health conditions and injury rehabilitation compared to one third for relaxation and stress management in 2015 (3B Scientific Therapy and Wellness Insight, 2016). As massage and bodywork therapists take a larger role as healthcare providers, they must meet the challenge of aligning their practice with other medical professionals in terms of ethical standards. Integrating healthcare through a multidisciplinary approach has great benefits for the client and enhances the practice
CONTINUED EDUCATION AND TRAINING
educators (Alliance for Massage Therapy Education, 2012). Within this broader mission, one of the organization’s primary goals is to strengthen and improve the quality of massage education. To carry out this objective, the Alliance has embarked upon a long-term effort to address the critical need for teacher training, called the National Teacher Education Standards Project (TESP) .
The continued growth of ethical practice in the profession of massage and bodywork therapy depends upon quality education and training and the Alliance For Massage Therapy Education (AFMTE) is dedicated to this goal. The Alliance for Massage Therapy Education was established to serve as an independent voice, advocate and resource for the community of massage schools and The Alliance for Massage Therapy Education Standards This document contains ten standards that begin with a descriptive narrative and then lists competencies needed to carry out that element of the educational process. These
elements are presented in the matrix of knowledge, skills and attitudes (KSAs), which form the basis for effective and successful teaching. Knowledge is something an individual
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Book Code: MPA0825
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