Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/72093
10 BENEFITS OF A SIDE-LYING POSITION ABMPtv.com "Hips and Back: Tensor Fasciae Latae" can use downward leverage to massage these muscles (downward leverage is much easier on the practitioner's body), instead of lateral leverage. 6. Body Mechanics Body mechanics experts are in favor of a side-lying position because it allows the practitioner to maintain a neutral spine while massaging. Because the client's body is higher up on the table, the practitioner is able to sit up straighter. In addition, when massaging in a side-lying position, there are many opportunities to sit on the table. Because the client takes up much less space on the table, there is plenty of room for you. Massage is a laborious profession; it's important for career longevity to take advantage of opportunities to sit down. 7. Client Comfort Some massage practitioners are in the habit of only massaging their clients in prone and supine positions, and think they are being bothersome to ask clients to turn on their sides. Nothing could be further from the truth. A side-lying position is reminiscent of the fetal position and is the position many people commonly sleep in. In fact, many clients prefer it to being facedown in the face cradle. Once you've massaged your clients in a side-lying position, don't be surprised if they request it the next time. 8. Clinical Advantage Because many massage practitioners are in the habit of only massaging their clients in prone and supine positions, they are limited to the benefits these positions provide and are not always able to help their clients. Learning to massage clients in a side-lying position will give you an edge over the competition because you will be able to treat a wider variety of issues more effectively. 9. Forearm Massage It's possible to massage the whole body in a side- lying position using your forearms. Because the forearms are more durable than the hands, fingers, or thumbs, you'll be able to work longer and deeper on your clients with less wear and tear on the more fragile joints of the hands (see page 69). 10. Better Access One of the more obvious advantages to positioning your clients on their sides is having access to the muscles that run along the sides of the body, such as the tensor fasciae latae (TFL). In a side-lying position, it is possible to use downward pressure to massage the TFL. The TFL is a small muscle that, when tight, can cause enormous pain. I have often had clients come in complaining of stubborn hip pain and tell me about the bodywork they've had on it with no relief. Once I release the TFL, the pain is gone. It's difficult to access the TFL from supine or prone positions, but from a side-lying position, it's easy. A FRESH PERSPECTIVE A side-lying position opens up possibilities by offering another angle from which to massage your clients. If you're a seasoned practitioner, a side-lying position can give you a fresh perspective on the body. If you're a new practitioner, a side-lying position can increase your repertoire in a competitive market. Shari Auth is a licensed massage therapist and acupuncturist, and is certified in the Rolf method of structural integration and Chinese herbology. She is the founder of the Auth Method and has a DVD, book, and home-study course on forearm massage, as well as a new DVD titled Forearm Massage: A Guide To Side-Lying Position. She teaches CE workshops and is an NCBTMB-approved provider. For more information, visit www.authmethod.com. Celebrate ABMP's 25th anniversary and you may win a refund on your membership. ABMP.com. 71