Course Descriptions
Advanced Western Techniques and their Clinical Applications
This course consists of applying Swedish massage, myofascial, trigger point and other advanced Western techniques to common conditions that massage therapists will likely encounter in practice. Students add to knowledge learned in Pathology and Assessment to design treatment plans that are safe, relevant, effective and thorough. Lessons progress regionally through the body to address common conditions, develop treatment strategies and apply detailed work to each area. Prerequisite: Swedish Massage II, Tools of Assessment and Treatment (with an Introduction to Sports Massage); Prerequisite or Co-requisite: Assessment of Soft Tissue Conditions, Pathology for the Health Related Professions I and II.
Anatomy & Physiology I
This course is an introduction to human anatomy and physiology. It begins with a discussion of the levels of organization of the body and an overview of the major body systems, listing the organs and functions of each. It also covers anatomical terminology, anatomical relationships, planes of section, body cavities and the fluid spaces of the body. It addresses homeostasis as an organizing principle for the study of anatomy and physiology. A major portion of the first section of the course is devoted to the study of the skeletal system, emphasizing its role in movement and posture. It examines the bony features that are involved in joints, serve as palpatory landmarks, and as sites of muscle and ligament attachment. In addition, it explores the structure of the major joints of the body and the movements performed at each joint.
The second portion of the course is a brief introduction to the basic chemistry necessary to understand life processes, elementary cell anatomy and physiology, basic metabolism, the histology of epithelial, connective, and muscle tissue, and the physiology of skeletal muscle contraction.
This course includes lecture format presentations, the examination of skeletons, video presentations of cadaver anatomy, and movement labs. Prerequisite: None
Anatomy & Physiology II
This course covers the endocrine, cardiovascular (including the blood, the heart, the blood vessels, and hemodynamics), lymphatic, digestive, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive systems. The cells, tissues, and organs of each system are presented along with the basic normal physiology. There will be a discussion of the role of each system in maintaining homeostasis and health.
Students will also learn how to find and interpret (read) research papers on massage therapy, physical therapy, exercise physiology and allied health to determine the usefulness of their findings in treatment applications.
A field trip to a related exhibit or cadaver lab is included. Prerequisite: Anatomy & Physiology I, Myology & Kinesiology, Palpation.
Applied Topics in Anatomy and Physiology
This course covers advanced anatomy and physiology topics that are of particular interest to health and wellness professionals. It covers basic pharmacology for health and wellness practitioners, emphasizing drugs used for musculoskeletal conditions and the actions and side effects of other commonly prescribed medications. It explores the relationship between stress and the autonomic nervous system, the endocrine system, and the immune system. Various techniques for managing stress are discussed. The course examines research methods and critical assessment of research papers in order that allied health professionals may base their treatment plans on the most current evidence available in the field. The course ends with a presentation of varying approaches to myofascial techniques.
Recent journal articles and videos on scientific discoveries and research will serve as the evolving basis for course materials and the common types of research studies and the criteria involved in critically analyzing a research paper will be applied to selected studies chosen by the instructor and department. A field trip to a cadaver lab is included. Prerequisite: Anatomy & Physiology I, Neurology, Anatomy & Physiology 2.
Assessment of Soft Tissue Conditions
This course covers the basic principles of assessment of muscular, skeletal, neurological and joint dysfunctions commonly encountered in massage therapy. Students learn the basic principles of assessment; differentiation of acute, subacute and chronic stages of healing; how to evaluate progress of healing and the effectiveness of treatment. It also introduces assessment of the skin and superficial fascia for reflex disturbances, posture and postural deviations. After general introductory topics are considered, the course introduces specific assessment tests used to distinguish, in a general way, between muscular, fascial, joint, neurological and visceral disturbances. The assessment results of common soft tissue conditions in different regions of the body are presented and the appropriateness of massage treatment and/or the need for referral is discussed. Prerequisite: Tools of Assessment and Treatment; Prerequisite or Co-requisite: Pathology for the Health-Related Professions I and Pathology for the Health-Related Professions II.
Clinical Internship I
Students, under supervision, perform one-hour Swedish massage sessions on clients in the school's Stress Reduction Clinic. Prerequisite: Swedish Massage I, Anatomy & Physiology I, Myology & Kinesiology, Palpation.
Clinical Internship II
Students, under supervision, perform one-hour Shiatsu sessions on clients in the school's Stress Reduction Clinic. Prerequisite: Shiatsu.
Clinical Internship III
The Therapeutic Massage Clinic is a culminating experience for students as they treat clients with specific physical complaints and begin to put into practice all they have learned from Eastern and Western massage courses. Emphasis is placed on honing the skills necessary to become an effective practitioner. Under faculty supervision, students work directly with clients for 12 weeks and conduct intake interviews, perform assessments, research medical literature, create treatment plans, monitor client progress, maintain records and communicate in a meaningful way with clients. Supervision classes allow ample opportunity for discussion of issues of practice that arise during the process. CPR and First Aid training are also included. Prerequisite: Clinical Internship I & II, Pathology for the Health-Related Professions I, Pathology for the Health-Related Professions II, Assessment of Soft Tissue Conditions, Advanced Western Techniques & their Clinical Applications, Shiatsu II and Eastern Evaluation; Prerequisite or Co-requisite: Clinical Strategies East and West.
Clinical Strategies: East and West
This course explores the application of Eastern and Western assessment models to a variety of conditions and patterns of disharmony. Students learn to work within the two traditions and to extract from each what might be most beneficial for their clients.
Each class presents a different condition and considers various Eastern and Western approaches of assessment and treatment. Class discussions include ways in which Eastern and Western approaches can be synthesized, used simultaneously or exclusively, as appropriate for each condition. Topics include chronic pain syndromes, digestive conditions, respiratory conditions, cardiovascular and Shen disorders, pregnancy, immune disorders, arthritis, repetitive use disorders, headache and cancer.
Students are each assigned a condition to research. The student selects appropriate assessment methods for the condition and develops treatment protocols from both Eastern and Western disciplines. Students present findings in a written format and meet individually with a faculty member to discuss the approaches developed. Prerequisite: Pathology for the Health-Related Professions I, Pathology for the Health-Related Professions II, Assessment of Soft Tissue Conditions, Advanced Western Techniques & Their Clinical Applications, Shiatsu II & Eastern Evaluation.
Complementary Techniques
The Complementary Techniques course consists of three 5-week modules, for a total of 15 weeks. Included are Introduction to Polarity, Introduction to Reflexology and Introduction to Tui Na. Descriptions of each course follow:
Introduction to Polarity
Students study the basics of natural healing by giving attention to the human energy system. They learn the theories of Polarity work and a basic routine using the Polarity Energy model.
Introduction to Reflexology
This module examines the basic theory and techniques of foot Reflexology. Topics will include the history of Reflexology, an overview of the reflexes and referral patterns of the feet, and zone therapy. The aim of the module is to provide students with basic techniques that can be incorporated into any style of bodywork they pursue. In addition, students will be provided with enough information about the benefits of Reflexology to be able to appropriately recommend it to clients, or discuss it knowledgeably with other health care professionals.
Introduction to Tui Na
This module explores the approach of Tui Na, which is Chinese clinical massage. The focus is on theories of Eastern massage, basic hand techniques and how to apply the techniques in protocols for common conditions.
Prerequisite: Shiatsu II.
Electives
For their electives, students may choose one of three options: the Western Elective Sequence (Integrative Therapeutic Massage and Self-Care, 15 weeks), the Eastern Elective Sequence (Advanced Shiatsu and Self-Care, 15 weeks) or a third option, the Mixed Elective Sequence which consists of three 5-week modules including: Introduction to Lymphatic Drainage Massage, Introduction to Craniosacral Therapy and Introduction to Thai Massage. Elective offerings are subject to change on a semester-by-semester basis, and every elective may not be offered in every time slot. Descriptions of all elective choices follow:
Western Elective: Integrative Therapeutic Massage and Self-Care
This is an important course to bring students to a high level of skill and confidence in their technique, professionalism and adaptability. It is very much like a lab class where there is time to hone and integrate skills and techniques under the guidance of a senior level instructor.
Students will be supported throughout the semester in continuing to develop their quality of touch and overall session quality. Feedback from fellow students and instructors will be strongly emphasized throughout the entire course. The course work, the opportunity to work on the instructor and the final practical exam are all means to ensure that students are prepared to confidently enter the profession as effective, ethical and successful massage therapists.
Students will advance their skills to the next level by practicing adapting their intake, assessment, communication and hands-on skills to best meet the unique goals and needs of each client. Different potential work environments including spas, health clubs and private practice will be discussed. Students will practice adapting their sessions to different time frames including 50-minute sessions and half-hour, full-hour and hour-and-a-half therapeutic massages. There will also be lessons to reinforce and support the student's ability to integrate stretches and side-lying position into their sessions.
This course will continue to support the students in developing their self-care practices so they can work the hours necessary for a successful practice with comfort and ease. Students will practice self-massage and discuss emotional care and burnout issues. Common injuries of massage therapists and how to help prevent and treat them will be discussed. Topics will include conditioning, body mechanics, self-stretching and the use of massage tools to reduce stress on the hands. The Wellness Model will also be discussed in relation to relaxation massage and self-care. Prerequisite: Assessment of Soft Tissue Conditions, Advanced Western Techniques and their Clinical Applications.
Eastern Elective: Advanced Shiatsu and Self-Care
In this course students will continue to develop and perform client- centered Shiatsu sessions, while bringing attention to body mechanics and self-care issues. Students will continue to develop the process of integrating theory into session planning and will have ample time to further develop their technique and theoretical understanding. There will be opportunities for giving and receiving feedback and for working on the instructor for feedback. New topics will include Tai Chi to enhance posture and alignment in the work, and introductions to: tongue and pulse evaluation, the use of guasha, command-points, barefoot Shiatsu, the use of elbows and knees, and Chinese prenatal theory with side-lying work. Prerequisite: Shiatsu II and Eastern Evaluation.
Mixed Elective
The Mixed Elective consists of the following three 5-week modules:
Introduction to Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Covers basic anatomy of the superficial and some of the deeper lymphatics, including the theory supporting massage techniques to drain lymphatic fields. Students are introduced to basic techniques and how they are used in a focused sequence for a variety of conditions.
Introduction to Craniosacral Therapy
Introduction to the craniosacral system, its function in health maintenance and its relationship to the disease process. Students begin to develop palpation skills and to explore basic techniques and protocols for treatment of restrictions and imbalances within the system.
Introduction to Thai Massage
Covers the basic theories of Thai Massage and analyzes how they compare and contrast with the theories of Shiatsu. Students study the basic body mechanics and positioning for this modality as well as many of the stretches and transitions of this fluid and dynamic style, with the client in both lying and seated positions.
Prerequisites: Anatomy & Physiology II, Introduction to Eastern Bodywork and Theory, Swedish Massage I.
Prerequisite or Co-requisite: Pathology for the Health-Related Professions I and II.
Introduction to Eastern Bodywork and Theory
This course provides an introduction to the history of, and theoretical basis for, Eastern medicine. Students are exposed to the fundamental concepts of the Tao, Yin and Yang, Five Element theory, Qi, Blood, Jing and Shen, and study the pathways of the 12 regular meridians, two of the eight extraordinary vessels and selected points on each. Analysis is undertaken of the physiology of each organ system as understood in Eastern medicine, along with the basic patterns of disharmony of the various organ systems. Students begin to develop the physical strength and flexibility necessary to perform Shiatsu. They also embark upon a self-cultivation journey that includes exercises to cultivate and palpate Qi, and to begin development of meditation skills. Prerequisite or Co-requisite: Anatomy & Physiology I, Myology & Kinesiology, Palpation.
Myology & Kinesiology
This course is a detailed exploration of the human muscular system. It covers all the major muscles of the axial and appendicular segments of the body. The location, origins, insertions, actions, postural considerations, and how to place on the slack and stretch, will be presented for each muscle.
This course consists of lecture presentations plus a two-hour field trip to a relevant museum, exhibit or cadaver lab. In addition, there are in class video presentations of cadaver prosections. Prerequisite: None.
Neurology
This course is an introduction to the nervous system. It begins with the study of the basic kinds of cells that comprise nerve tissue and the physiology of the nerve impulse, including the role of neurotransmitters in the transmission of impulses across the synapse.
Following this introductory material, the anatomy of the spinal cord, spinal meninges, spinal nerves, spinal nerve plexuses, terminal nerve pathways and points of endangerment and entrapment are covered in depth. The clinical applications of the spinal reflexes and their integration into allied health practice are discussed. The brain is considered next, emphasizing its role in movement control and re-education, general and special sensory processing, pain, proprioception, posture, and equilibrium control. The cranial nerves will also be addressed.
Students will be instructed in the scientific method, research, evidence hierarchy, and concepts of evidence based practice, the "wellness model", and research literacy vs. research capacity as it relates to CAM and CAHC. The course finishes with a presentation of the autonomic nervous system, considering its role in the regulation of visceral functions, and the relationship between visceral and somatic functions. Prerequisite: Anatomy & Physiology I, Myology & Kinesiology, Palpation.
Off-Site Internships I - III
Students, under supervision, provide Eastern and Western massage sessions to clients in a variety of community settings, such as hospitals, clinics, senior centers, hospices and at sporting events.
Off-Site Internship I – Prerequisite or Co-requisite: Tools of Assessment and Treatment.
Off-Site Internship II – Prerequisite: Tools of Assessment and Treatment.
Off-Site Internship III – Prerequisite or Co-requisite: Clinical Internship III.
Palpation
In this course students learn to palpate structures studied in Anatomy & Physiology I and Myology & Kinesiology. Students study anatomy with their hands, an essential prerequisite for the effective practice of allied health professions. The course includes a series of exercises designed to awaken sensitivity in the hands, as well as the detailed palpation of all the bones, muscles, and ligaments studied in the Anatomy & Physiology and Myology & Kinesiology classes. The students also examine the characteristics of various structures such as skin, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and muscles. By the end of the course, the student should be able to perform basic palpation of all the major muscles of the body.
The course consists of instructor demonstrations, in-class video demonstrations of the palpation material, palpation by the students, the use of overhead and slide projectors, and direct feedback from the instructors. The students will work in small groups to enhance peer instruction and learning. Prerequisite or Co-Requisite: Anatomy & Physiology I, Myology & Kinesiology.
Pathology for the Health-Related Professions I
This course is an introduction to pathology. It begins with an introduction to medical terminology and the classifications of disease, a thorough overview of the processes of cellular adaptation and injury in response to cell stress, and a review of the physiological effects of treatment modalities used by allied health practitioners.
The nature of inflammation and how it affects the tissue structures in acute, subacute, and chronic phases of injury recovery will be covered in detail.
Soft tissue injuries, including muscle and joint injuries, whiplash, repetitive use disorders (e.g., tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, shin splints), intervertebral disc problems, dislocations, subluxations, and arthritis are discussed. The course also covers muscle disease, postural alignment, and myofascial pain syndromes. Indications and contraindications for massage and exercise training are addressed throughout. Prerequisite: Anatomy & Physiology I, Anatomy & Physiology II, Myology & Kinesiology, Neurology, Palpation.
Pathology for the Health-Related Professions II
This course is a continuation of Pathology I. It begins with a continuation of joint pathologies. This is followed by a discussion of infectious disease, HIV/AIDS, autoimmunity, and cancer. Special attention is paid to the role of the allied health practitioner in working with clients that have chronic debilitating disease.
Next, the course considers selected dermatological conditions often encountered. Neurological disorders of the central and peripheral nervous systems, including Parkinson's disease, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, entrapment neuropathies, and radiculopathies are covered. It also covers cardiovascular conditions such as inflammatory and degenerative heart disease, cerebrovascular accidents, and blood vessel pathologies such as atherosclerosis, varicose veins, vasculitis, and deep venous thrombosis. Selected conditions of the respiratory, urinary and digestive systems will be explored.
This course also addresses the impact of lifestyle habits such as smoking, diet, exercise, and stress in health maintenance and the disease process. Prerequisite: Anatomy & Physiology I, Anatomy & Physiology II, Myology & Kinesiology, Neurology, Palpation.
Professional Development and Ethics I - IV
Students complete four levels of course work in Professional Development and Ethics: Professional Development and Ethics I, Professional Development and Ethics II, Professional Development and Ethics III and Professional Development and Ethics IV. This series of courses is designed to help students recognize and anticipate some of the complex dynamics and issues encountered in the client/therapist relationship and develop the skills necessary to negotiate these interactions. Informed consent and scope of practice are discussed. Students are introduced to the history of massage, to currently accepted standards of professionalism in the field and to communication skills necessary to enhance the client/therapist relationship.
Also included are business practice classes designed to provide the skills and strategies for seeking and finding satisfying employment and for building and maintaining successful and ethical private practices as massage therapists. Students learn how to identify target markets, develop strategies for networking and practice building, prepare a brochure and résumé, perform in a job interview and present themselves and their work in effective ways.
In addition, students are introduced to the various professional organizations and to malpractice and liability insurance options. The use of oils, creams, liniments, powders, paraffin and mechanical devices such as heat lamps are covered from a Western perspective, including indications and contraindications. The use of essential oils is introduced from an Eastern perspective, including the types of oils, their Five Element resonance, point combinations and protocols for some basic conditions.
Prerequisite for Professional Development III: Professional Development I
Prerequisite for Professional Development IV: Professional Development II
Shiatsu I
This course prepares the students to perform Kata I (a full body Shiatsu sequence working the Earth, Metal and Water meridians). Students study the fundamentals of body mechanics, proper placement of the body to access the meridians, as well as stretches, transitions and protocols for each element. Students also continue the Qi Gong and meditation practices begun in Introduction to Eastern Bodywork and Theory. For each element, students study the basic associations and patterns of disharmony and the relationships within the generation and control cycles that form the foundation of Five Element theory. Protocols for working in side-lying position are presented. Students become familiar with the order of infiltration and the evaluation areas of the Hara, the back zones and the Mu and Shu points.
This technique class gives students ample in-class practice time in Kata I with much emphasis on technical and palpatory skills. Prerequisite: Introduction to Eastern Bodywork & Theory; Prerequisite or Co-requisite: Anatomy & Physiology I, Myology & Kinesiology, Palpation.
Shiatsu II and Eastern Evaluation
This course prepares students to perform Kata II (a full-body sequence in the Water, Wood and Fire elements). Students study the elemental associations and patterns of disharmony and relationships within the generation and control cycle. Students are expected to further develop skills in regard to body mechanics, placement and stretches. Students also develop an individual Qi Gong practice to build Qi cultivation along with the knowledge of self-care and meditation exercises. This course also introduces the study of Eastern assessment and evaluation within a Five Element framework. The course covers Bo Shin (looking), Bun Shin (listening, smelling), Mon Shin (asking) and Setsu Shin (touching), and marks the beginning of students' integrated practice of Shiatsu. Students learn how to design a treatment to meet the specific needs of each client and to view the assessment information, using the concepts of the Generation and Control cycles to create specific treatment strategies. Students are expected to assess the pattern presented by their clients and develop and perform a treatment protocol tailored to the client's needs, using the techniques gained in Shiatsu I and II. Prerequisite: Shiatsu I.
Swedish Massage I
This course introduces the students to the strokes and hands-on skills that are the groundwork for massage techniques used throughout the Massage Therapy Program. This course develops communication skills, presents draping and bolstering techniques, and reviews the benefits of, and contraindications for, massage. Students learn the basic strokes of compression, jostling, effleurage, petrissage, friction, vibration, tapotement and range-of-motion techniques. In order to reduce mechanical strain and potential for injury, students also study the fundamentals of body mechanics and correct wrist and hand alignment, as well as self-stretching, self-care and stretching exercises. Students will learn to perform a fluid one-hour, full-body relaxation massage incorporating basic range-of-motion techniques. Prerequisite or Co-requisite: Anatomy & Physiology I, Myology & Kinesiology, Palpation.
Swedish Massage II
Swedish Massage II builds upon the student's base of myology, palpation and Swedish Massage l. It also begins to introduce subjective and objective assessments that will help prepare students for future classes and clinics, which involve more therapeutic approaches. Students learn new techniques, including chair massage, muscle stripping and myofascial techniques. Students continue to develop their palpation skills and their understanding of the muscular layering of the body. Students then draw from their knowledge of anatomy to apply their massage techniques with increasing anatomical precision. Through assigned reading and lecture, the students develop their understanding of the physiological effects of the new techniques, and add to their understanding of local and systemic cautions and contraindications for massage. Prerequisite: Swedish Massage I. Co-requisite: Tools of Assessment and Treatment (with an Introduction to Sports Massage). Prerequisites or Co-requisites: Neurology, Anatomy & Physiology II.
Tools of Assessment and Treatment (with an Introduction to Sports Massage)
This course continues training in self-care, presents the beginning steps of assessment and introduces many new treatment techniques. Students will learn to use Passive Range of Motion, Active Range of Motion and Muscle Length Tests to identify which muscles may be shortened or overstretched, enabling them to apply therapeutic techniques efficiently and effectively. New therapeutic techniques students will learn include Body Mobilization Techniques (BMT) to help enhance flexibility, and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) techniques to help establish more length in shortened tissues. In the Introduction to Sports Massage unit, students will learn to combine stretching, BMT, PNF and additional techniques into pre-event and post-event massages. Some of the additional techniques include Reciprocal Inhibition, approximation and hydrotherapy. Prerequisite: Swedish Massage I. Co-requisite: Swedish Massage II. Prerequisites or Co-requisites: Anatomy & Physiology II, Neurology.
