P
Modalities- Different Types of Massage
Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapy- Developed
by Therese Pfrimmer of Canada in 1940's as a result of her battle with
paralysis. Pfrimmer therapy is detailed cross fiber friction that
stimulates circulation and regenerates the lymphatic flow. The work enables
free flow of lymph and blood as well as improving joint movement and removal
of waste products/toxins from muscle tissue. Training is a 2 week
course.
Web resources:
Pfrimmer
method
Pilates- Pilates is a method of
movement and execise developed by Joseph Pilates. The exercises focus
on development of the core muscles and work to lengthen the muscles while
strengthening them. Pilates is also sometimes called "The Method"
as there is some controversy over the rights to the work.
Book resources:
The
Complete Guide to Joseph H Pilates Techniques of Physical Conditioning
by Allan Menezes
The
Pilates Body by Brook Siler
Web resources:
Polarity- Developed by Austrian
born Randolph Stone in the 1920's. Stone was trained in chiropractic,
osteopathic medicine, naturopathic medicine and Ayurvedic methods. he also
studied Yoga extensively. Polarity theory is based on the principle
that every cell has both negative and positive poles and the body is gently
manipulated through touch or holding of tissue. The top and right side
of the body have positive charges and the feet and left side have a negative
charge. The practitioner places their right hand on the negative
charged parts of the client and the left hand on positively charged parts.
Integrates bodywork, diet, simple exercises (polarity yoga) and self- awareness.
Emphasizes the connection of the body, mind, emotions and spiritual connections.
The intention is to balance the energy in the body, toward the ultimate
goal of uniting body, mind, emotions and spirit. Training is a 430
hour program.
Book resources:
Polarity
Therapy by Randolph Stone
Web resources:
Polarity
Realization Institute-
American
Polarity Association-
Randolph Stone's work
The Hidden Patient Polarity Therapy for
Dementia Caregivers By Shirley Vanderbilt :Massage and
Bodywork Magazine
Postural Integration- Jack Painters
work developed from his training in Rolfing. Focus on the unity of tissue,
feeling and awareness using breathwork, deep fascia manipulation, emotional
expression and meditation. Training consists of a 3 year program:
the first 2 years are supervised instruction, the 3 year is supervised
internship.
Book resources:
Deep bodywork by Jack Painter
(out of print but check www.bookfinder.com
or
www.half.com)
Web resources:
International
Center for Release and Integration
Pregnancy Massage- Massage therapy
techniques geared toward the expectant mother. There are many health
concerns and complications to take into consideration when working with
a pregnant woman. Most techniques are done in the side-lying position
as they are unable to lay prone. In most cases massage can be done
right up to and including delivery.
Web resources:
Carol Osborne Sheets www.bodytherapyassociates.com
The Evolution of an MT From Office to Birthing Room By Caitlin Philips :
Massage and Bodywork Magazine
See the Pregnancy Massage
Section
Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation-
Developed by Dorothy Voss. Use of controlled movements to stretch,
lengthen and re-organize the muscle. based on Sherrington's Principle
of reciprocal innervation: when the agonist is firing and the affected
joint moves, the antagonist group will be inhibited.
