Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/81195
best practices BUSINESS SIDE | Q & ART | TABLE LESSONS | SAVVY SELF-CARE Congestion Conundrum By Art Riggs Q DEAR SNIFF SNIFF, Have you ever had a gourmet meal at a fancy restaurant, only to be distracted by a wobbly table to the point that you don't notice the excellent food? That's the way I (and quite a few others I've polled) often feel about stuffed-up sinuses or an uncomfortable headrest when getting otherwise great bodywork. The reality is that a significant number of people find headrests problematic (especially with the sinus issue), irrespective of how comfy the headrest may be for others. It speaks well of your communication skills that A your clients feel free to discuss such issues with you. Of course, many people love a headrest, but I suspect that a fair number of potential clients assume it is an uncomfortable necessity that must be endured for the convenience of the therapist, and worse, for some it may even deter them from getting bodywork. The first step is to determine if your client also has DEAR ART, Some of my clients complain of congested sinuses when I work on them in the prone position with a headrest. Do you have any suggestions? —SNIFF SNIFF this problem with other practitioners. If not, check out the most common possible causes in your workspace. • Allergens—Make sure that your space is free of dust, cleaning solvents in carpets, or other common allergy culprits. Use unscented and hypoallergenic lubrication, and have a conspicuous sign asking clients to not wear any scents that may linger after a session. • Relative humidity—Dry air may sensitize sinuses; a humidifier may help. Celebrate ABMP's 25th anniversary and you may win a refund on your membership. ABMP.com. 29