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 an 11-pound head, 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 (e.g., 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: Saturday, February 8th, 2025, 10am-7pm
Tuition: $180.
Reviewers Discount: If you have previously taken this class, you may review it for $126. If you are eligible for the reviewer's discount, please call Robbin at 206.853.6875 to register as the website only offers classes at the regular price.
Registration: This class is sponsored by the Therapeutic Training Center. Click here to register.
Regarding masking: We have moved to a hybrid version of the masking policy—there are different masking requirements for the lecture and non-lecture portions of class.
Lecture: During the opening portion of class and during the two lectures, masking is optional, each person can choose to wear a mask or not.
Masking is required during the non-lecture portion of class when you are doing technique or watching a technique demonstration. Please bring a surgical or N95 mask--choose what works best for you, and consider bringing two masks.