Neuroscience of Massage Therapy
Course Focus
This course does not aim to introduce a 'new' manual therapy modality. Your existing techniques, skills, and experiences are highly valued. Instead, this course focuses on enhancing palpation skills, refining outdated habits, and cultivating an understanding of science-based hypotheses related to manual therapy and the brain.
The latest research on manual therapy, neurology, biopsychosocial factors, and learning behaviors have all been integrated into this course. The aim is to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the intricate interactions between therapist and client.
Course Objectives
1. Understanding Touch and Pain: We will explore the research behind how touch and pain interact with our brain and musculoskeletal system, both separately and in conjunction.
2. Historical Foundations of Manual Therapy: We will investigate the rich history of manual therapy and its foundations. This knowledge will empower us to identify and challenge any misinformation within the profession.
3. Integration of Neuroplasticity: We will examine how to integrate neuroplasticity into our manual therapy practices. Additionally, we will explore how language, palpation skills, and observational feedback can profoundly impact our clients/patients.
4. Palpation Skills Development: Through practical labs that can be completed at home, we will introduce measurable skills related to palpation practices.
Intro: Exploration of the origins and definition of modern manual therapy.
Allostatic Labs: Understanding allostatic load's connection to pain and stress in daily life.
Hands-On Lab: Includes evaluating & treating the epidermis/dermis, how to dis/engage the sympathetic and para sympathetic nervous systems, updates to myofascial release, trigger point therapy as well as speed and pressure labs as they correlate to target tissues and nervous system responses.
Research: Reviewing 100+ research papers on the evolution of manual therapy techniques in order to understand the shift in touch therapy over the past 15 years.
Key Concepts: ASMR, pain, 8 senses of the sensory system, pain education, neuroscience, biotensegrity laws, memory, long-term potentiation, synaptic plasticity, and research methodologies.