Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/434495
CARRYING CASE AND ROLLING CART A carrying case made of tough waterproof material protects the portable massage table during transport. Straps make it easier to lift and carry the case. Cases that completely unzip on three sides are easier to put on and take off the massage table. Rolling carts make it easy to move the table and help prevent muscle strain while transporting it. Although the table must still be lifted up stairs or over curbs, a cart is a valuable investment for mobile therapists. If you plan on doing a lot of on-site work, consider adding a massage chair to your equipment list. MASSAGE STOOL Massage stools usually have wheels so they can be rolled around the massage table. Sitting down at appropriate points during the massage helps rest your feet. Most stools can be adjusted to different heights, and some are available with back supports. Some therapists sit on a Swiss exercise ball during sessions, which can encourage good body mechanics. MASSAGE MAT A massage mat (sometimes called a shiatsu mat) is a large padded surface that rests on the fl oor. The mat provides a comfortable surface for the client and allows the therapist to use his or her body weight effectively for the delivery of certain techniques, such as Thai massage or shiatsu. BOLSTERS Bolsters are any cushions used to support the client's body while on the table. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are usually placed under the knees and neck when the client is supine, and under the ankles when the client is prone. In the side-lying position, regular bed pillows are useful for supporting the client's upper body and head, and a long, rounded bolster is placed under the knee and along the length of the lower leg. Pregnancy wedges can be used to provide support for pregnant women when resting in a semi-reclined position. pregnant women when resting in a semi-reclined position. CL ASSROOM TO CLIENT F r e e m u s i c d o w n l o a d s f o r C e r t i f i e d m e m b e r s : w w w. a b m p . c o m / g o / c e r t i f i e d c e n t r a l 33 Anne Williams is the director of education for Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals and author of Massage Mastery: from Student to Professional (Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2012), from which this article was adapted, and Spa Bodywork: A Guide for Massage Therapists (Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2006). She can be reached at anne@abmp.com. Bolsters help relieve a client's low- back pressure when supine.