MUSCLE-SPECIFIC DEEP TISSUE TECHNIQUES FOR THE POSTERIOR, LATERAL AND ANTERIOR NECK
The neck is a strong, vulnerable and complex structure. It is the most movable part of the spine, and yet is strong enough to balance and support the head (~5 kg), even with chronically poor posture. Skillful deep tissue work in this area is not about brute force; it’s about precision and strategy, informed by knowledge of the anatomical structures. It’s rare to find massage therapists who really know how to massage the neck in a precise, specific way--especially around the small muscular attachments to the transverse processes--even though this is often where the muscles are most frayed and/or inflamed.
In the morning you will learn specific techniques for releasing the cervical posterior paraspinal muscles (longissimus, semispinalis capitis, multifidus), suboccipital triangle, levator scapula (especially the cervical attachments), facet joints, splenius capitus and cervicis, posterior, middle, and anterior scalenes, sternocleidomastoid, and masseter.
In the afternoon we will focus on deep muscle-specific techniques for the anterior neck. Many people learned in massage school to avoid this area, but it responds safely and well to skilled and precise touch. We will focus on the scalene, suprahyoid, infrahyoid, and longus capitus and colli groups. This is really helpful work for clients who have been in car accidents, have emotional issues with their necks or throats, or use their voices professionally (eg, singers).
These are straightforward, muscle-specific techniques that can be immediately applied in practice. The work is well-suited to either treating cervical injuries or improving your spa massage, and will increase your precision, palpatory sensitivity, and effectiveness. Body mechanics will also be a focus of the class as well as proper use of fingers to save wear and tear on joints.
“I honestly learned more in your neck class than any other CE I’ve taken, and I’ve been at it almost 13 years.” -Tracey Brandt
“I love neck work, and this class took things to the next level.” -Heather Finch
“This class has vastly improved my knowledge, approach, and technique. I am looking forward to immediately applying all this in my practice.” -Jessica Roberts
Instructor: Brian Utting
CE hours: 8 (NCBTMB-approved)
Date and Time: Sunday, April 21, 2024, 9:30am-6:30pm
Tuition: 180€ per day for 1 day class (Saturday or Sunday). 320€ for both classes (Saturday and Sunday).
Registration: This class is sponsored by the Ecole Européenne de Massage in Brussels, Belgium. Click here for registration information and other details.