ORTHOPEDIC MASSAGE
ORTHOPEDIC MASSAGE TREATS MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM
A therapist who performs orthopedic massage focuses on problems with the client’s musculoskeletal system. He or she may release tight muscles, help to stretch shortened muscles and tendons, and decompress joints. The goal is to normalize the soft tissues of the body, both to treat specific conditions and to keep clients generally healthy and fit. Because this type of massage is designed to treat medical conditions, it requires extensive training, as an unskilled therapist could harm a client by accident.
ORTHOPEDIC MASSAGE AND THE PROCEDURES
The first step in an orthopedic massage session is assessment, in which the therapist will talk to the client about the problem and examine the area of interest. If the massage therapist partners with a physician, he or she will also look over notes from the physician. Then, the therapist establishes a treatment plan which considers the physiological effects of various massage techniques. This style of massage is very flexible since it integrates a wide range of bodywork styles with the end goal of improving the client’s condition.