Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/812910
46 m a s s a g e & b o d y w o r k m a y / j u n e 2 0 1 7 FUNCTIONAL ANATOMY is identified by how richly the skin is innervated. Wilder Penfield, MD, developed a three-dimensional map of the disproportionate distribution of sensory importance in a figure identified as a cortical homunculus (see Image above). Observing this figure, there are implications as to the way we approach bodywork and specifically how we organize our time during a session. Clients often come in wanting extra attention on their neck or back, or even their feet. Since we are often constrained by a set session time, other areas will receive less attention as we honor the client's wishes. If we consider the sensory importance of different areas, which areas are most likely to have the biggest neurological influence? Is this consistent with how we approach timing full-body treatments? What about our approach to treating TMJ dysfunction or whiplash? Based on the constant utilization and complexity of movements activated by the facial muscles, the sensory importance of the facial region, and the strong connection between the facial muscles and the health and function of the head, neck and jaw, it may be worthwhile to revisit the amount of time spent working on this area. Specifically, focused work on the face and scalp can enhance parasympathetic activity and also improve efficacy of treatments for both traumatic injuries and chronic conditions affecting the head, neck, and jaw. Note 1. H. Zafar, "Integrated Jaw and Neck Function in Man. Studies of Mandibular and Head-Neck Movements During Jaw Opening-Closing Tasks," Swedish Dental Journal 143 (Supplement) (2000): 1–41. Christy Cael is a licensed massage therapist, certified strength and conditioning specialist, and instructor at the Bodymechanics School of Myotherapy & Massage in Olympia, Washington. Her private practice focuses on injury treatment, biomechanical analysis, craniosacral therapy, and massage for clients with neurological issues. She is the author of Functional Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Palpation for Manual Therapists (Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2009). Contact her at christy_cael@hotmail.com. This homunculus diagram, similar to the one created by Wilder Penfield in the 1940s, shows the amount of cortex devoted to each body part, as indicated by the size of the body part in the illustration. Image courtesy www.psywww.com/ intropsych/ch02_ human_nervous_system/ homunculus.html.