Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/230373
Exhaustion Contributes to Massage Therapists' Injuries Injury-forced work reduction (IFWR) has been acknowledged as an all-too-common occurrence for massage therapists and bodywork practitioners. Now, researchers have found that exhaustion is a key factor. Using data from an online survey sample of 2,079 practitioners, researchers found the most important contributor to IFWR was physical exhaustion and work exhaustion. That is, it's not just physical strain, but also mental fatigue that can lead to injuries for massage therapists and bodyworkers. Being female and having more years in practice were also significant factors increasing the risk of IFWR. The results suggest that taking sufficient time between massages and, if possible, varying your massage technique to replenish your physical and mental energy are important for self-care. Researchers note that failure to take continuing education also increases risk for IFWR. A study synopsis, including discussion of study limitations and future research issues, was published in the International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork at www.ijtmb.org/index.php/ijtmb/article/view/199. Massage Therapy Foundation Grant Deadline Approaches The deadline for the Massage Therapy Foundation's (MTF) 2014 research grant applications is Monday, March 3. The grants support studies that seek to advance understanding of specific therapeutic applications of massage, public attitudes toward massage therapy, and the role of massage therapy in health care. The maximum award is $30,000 for a one-year project. Applicants must have experience in the relevant field of research, and have the cooperation of a university, independent research organization, or other qualified institution as a project sponsor. Previous MTF grant recipient Mark Blegen says his grant was an invaluable opportunity. "I believe in the power of massage and its impact on health and wellness. Receiving this grant has helped me to introduce research to the next generation of researchers: students. To have funding available for massage is an incredible gift." For more information, visit www.massagetherapyfoundation.org. It pays to be ABMP Certified: www.abmp.com/go/certifiedcentral 19