Saturday, September 14th

Dimensional Massage Therapy for the Elbow, Hand, and Wrist (Hands-on with table)

The interconnected joints and muscles of the forearm, wrist, and hand enable repetitive motions that can lead to injury. In this session, participants will study anatomy, common conditions, and massage therapy approaches for the upper extremities, with a focus on the brachial plexus. We will cover assessment, pathology identification, health professional referral guidelines, and trigger point therapy. Discover how Dimensional Massage Therapy techniques can balance joints by addressing related muscles. Plus, find out how careful attention to body mechanics, lubrication, and client needs allow for safe and effective massage sessions for forearm, wrist, and hand conditions.

Materials Required: Please plan to bring or share a massage table if you select this class. Table storage will be provided.

View Nancy Dail's Speaker Bio

Introduction to Craniosacral Therapy for the Ear, Nose and Throat (Hands-on without table)

In this session, we will utilize lecture, slide presentation, discussion and hands-on exchanges, to learn the importance of craniosacral therapy (CST). Explore CST’s many benefits including releasing emotional and physical stress, tension, and easing pain. Find out how CST can restore cranial mobility and release restrictions in the cranial nerves and structures of the senses, including the ears, nose and throat.

Materials Required: This class does not require a table, but a towel or yoga mat will be helpful to participants for floor work.

View Wahneta Dimmer's Speaker Bio

Trauma-Informed Massage Therapy

Massage therapists often work with clients who have experienced trauma, yet they are not prepared to effectively manage these massage sessions. In this session, we will introduce the key concepts of trauma and trauma-informed care along with responsible assessment and massage therapy technique options. Explore how massage therapists can use communication and professionalism to protect client safety and vulnerability.

View Pamela Fitch's Speaker Bio

Orthopedic Procedures and Post-Surgical Precautions for the Shoulder

Many massage therapists do not fully understand post-surgical precautions for orthopedic conditions. In this session, we will delve into these orthopedic pathologies, surgeries, and the post-surgical precautions to help ensure that massage therapists can work safely on their clients without doing harm. Plus, learn how to communicate with doctors and physical therapists "in their own language”.

View Matthew Gavzy's Speaker Bio

Advanced Strain Counterstrain for the Automatic Nervous System (Hands-on with table)

Many individuals experience episodes of spinal pain at some point in their lives. By reducing protective muscle spasms, outcomes can be improved with longer lasting results. In this session, we will delve into the Integrative Manual Therapy’s Advanced Strain Counterstrain technique, a unique tool for addressing posture, neck, and low back pain. Come find out how this autonomic nervous system technique can be easily incorporated into your current massage therapy practice.

Materials Required: Please plan to bring or share a massage table if you select this class. Table storage will be provided.

View Thomas Giammatteo's Speaker Bio

Massage Therapy for Tension and Migraine Headaches (Hands-on without table)

In this session, we will delve into massage techniques to help relieve migraine and tension headaches as well as how to differentiate between the two types. Explore how to safely help clients with migraine and tension headaches while gaining an understanding of the massage therapy contraindications.

Materials Required:This class does not require a table, but a towel or yoga mat will be helpful to participants for floor work.

View Tiffany Hemrick's Speaker Bio

Shoulder and Arm Trigger Point Massage (Hands-on without table)

This session will address common trigger points in the shoulder and arm area. Together, we will explore palpation assessments and techniques for improving range of motion and muscle functionality. Gain new techniques to help clients who work on a computer regularly, are commuters, or trades people.

Materials Required: This class does not require a table, but a towel or yoga mat will be helpful to participants for floor work.

View Rob Kelly's Speaker Bio

Increasing Cervical Mobility (Hands-on without table)

Neck discomfort is one of the most common reasons that people see a massage therapist and the most noticeable presentation is often a restriction in range of motion. In this session, participants will learn to effectively evaluate range of motion, identify potentially involved soft tissue, and explore multiple targeted strategies for soft-tissue techniques.

Materials Required: This class does not require a table, but a towel or yoga mat will be helpful to participants for floor work.

View Douglas Nelson's Speaker Bio

Spinal Dynamics: Restoring Mobility and Stability

In this session, we will explore the function and structure of the spine as it relates to overall body function, mobility, and chronic pain patterns. Learn how to apply specific massage therapy techniques to improve mobility and relieve pain in your clients. Plus, gain an in-depth understanding of the dynamics of spinal movement.

View Ann Teachworth's Speaker Bio 

View Lynn Teachworth's Speaker Bio

Join us as we bring together leading experts in integrative healthcare to discuss the latest science in massage therapy and how you can apply it to your practice. This session will focus on three key research areas: the role of massage in alleviating chronic pain, the benefits of massage therapy for cancer patients, and the positive impact massage has on mental health. Listen as our panel explores how emerging research can better inform your massage practice and lead to improved outcomes for your clients. Leave this session feeling inspired and empowered to make a positive impact in your massage practice. Speakers to be announced soon.