Massage Therapy Extended Program

In learning to treat Iliopsoas Syndrome with massage, students will be trained to identify and release tension in the iliopsoas muscles, which are deep hip flexors responsible for stabilizing the lumbar spine and pelvis. The treatment will involve a combination of techniques such as deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy. Students will learn to palpate the iliopsoas muscle, access it safely and effectively through the abdomen or the side of the hip, and use precise pressure to release muscle tightness. They will also be taught how to assess posture, range of motion, and address compensatory patterns in surrounding muscles like the quadratus lumborum and gluteal muscles to support long-term relief for clients. Additionally, students will learn stretching techniques and client education on maintaining flexibility and strength to prevent recurrence. 

 In the course of studying massage therapy, students will learn to treat Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) by focusing on techniques that alleviate nerve and vascular compression in the neck, shoulders, and upper chest. Treatment begins with assessing the client’s symptoms, such as pain, tingling, and weakness in the arm and shoulder region, along with identifying postural imbalances that contribute to the condition. Students will target key muscles like the scalene and pectoralis minor, using techniques such as myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and deep tissue massage to reduce tension and relieve compression of the brachial plexus and blood vessels. Additionally, students will practice improving the client’s range of motion in the neck and shoulders to restore proper muscle function and reduce nerve impingement. They will also learn to educate clients on posture correction, stretching, and strengthening exercises to prevent symptom recurrence, thus offering a comprehensive approach to managing TOS.

  In the massage therapy program, students will learn a comprehensive approach to treating plantar fasciitis, focusing on both immediate symptom relief and long-term care. The curriculum covers the anatomy of the foot, particularly the plantar fascia, to help students understand the condition. Through hands-on training, students will practice deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy to alleviate tension in the fascia and surrounding muscles. They will also assess clients’ posture and biomechanics to identify contributing factors. Techniques such as gentle stretching, cross-fiber friction, and focused pressure on the calves and arches will be taught to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and increase flexibility. Students will also explore complementary therapies like heat and ice, as well as post-massage care strategies, including stretches and exercises, to help clients maintain progress. This holistic approach equips therapists to deliver effective, individualized treatment for plantar fasciitis.

 Massage therapy effectively relieves pressure on the sciatic nerve by addressing tightness and tension in the surrounding muscles, particularly the piriformis muscle, which is often responsible for compressing the nerve. This focused approach helps alleviate the characteristic pain, numbness, and discomfort associated with sciatica. Therapists employ deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and myofascial release to relax the piriformis and surrounding gluteal muscles, reducing spasms, breaking up adhesions, and improving circulation. By loosening the piriformis and creating more space for the sciatic nerve, the compression is alleviated, leading to reduced pain and improved mobility. The enhanced blood flow to the area promotes faster healing of inflamed tissues and offers long-term relief by helping restore proper function to both muscles and nerves. In addition, therapists may focus on the surrounding hip and lower back muscles to address potential biomechanical issues contributing to the condition, ensuring a more comprehensive approach to treating sciatica.

 In the massage therapy program, students will learn the essential techniques of myofascial release to treat chronic pain, muscle stiffness, and restricted movement. They will study the anatomy and function of fascia—the connective tissue surrounding muscles—and practice applying sustained pressure to release tension and break down adhesions. Through hands-on training, students will master complementary techniques like cross-fiber friction, deep tissue manipulation, and gentle stretching. They will also learn to assess each client's posture and movement patterns to create individualized treatment plans that target the root causes of fascial restrictions. Additionally, students will be trained to provide post-treatment guidance, including exercises and stretches to help clients maintain flexibility and prevent recurring issues. This comprehensive approach equips students to offer effective, personalized treatments that promote long-term healing and improved mobility.

 Students will learn to treat trigger points through a combination of theoretical understanding and hands-on practice. They will be introduced to the concept of myofascial trigger points—hyper-irritable spots within a taut band of muscle that can cause referred pain. Through detailed anatomy lessons, they will gain a deep understanding of the muscular system and how trigger points develop due to overuse, injury, or stress.

In practical sessions, students will be guided in locating trigger points through palpation and assessing patterns of referred pain. They will practice specific massage techniques such as deep tissue pressure, ischemic compression, and stretching to release these trigger points, improving muscle function and relieving pain. Critical feedback during hands-on work will help them refine their technique, ensuring safe and effective treatment.