Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1471270
THUMB-THUMB TECHNIQUE This next example of combining body parts, thumb-on-top-of-thumb, is not a thumb substitute; instead, it's a thumb-enhancer (Image 2). When you put a thumb on top of a thumb, you lessen the strain on both thumbs by spreading out the workload. Compare this technique with how you usually press with your thumb. The next time you're doing a massage, use one thumb to press into a calf. Then try using the thumb-on-thumb configuration shown in Image 2. If your hands are positioned how they are in the picture, you'll notice less strain on your thumbs. You can experiment and create your own body-part combinations by standing at the side of the table, placing your hands on the client's back, and then gliding with your hands together, allowing your fingers to explore different positions. MASSAGE TOOLS REPLACE THUMBS If you really want to take thumbs out of the pressing equation, try a massage tool, like the T-bar. But don't grip the 46 m a s s a g e & b o d y wo r k j u l y/a u g u s t 2 0 2 2 T-bar as shown in Image 3, because that will eventually strain your finger joints. Instead, pin the T-bar between your hand and the area you're working on. Then put a guide finger next to the stem of the T-bar to stabilize it in your hand. Lean into the massage tool to generate force, and then relax the holding hand, like in Image 4. If you're worried about losing sensitivity with a massage tool, you're not alone, but there's no need to worry. The guide finger next to the stem of the massage tool not only stabilizes the massage tool but also serves as a sensor and a palpation tool. 2 3 4 Make sure to press with your top thumb too (Image 2). Gripping the stem of the massage tool can stress finger joints (Image 3). Pin the massage tool between your hand and the tissue you're working on instead of gripping the handle to keep the tool upright (Image 4).