Pre-Convention Workshops - Wednesday, August 26

Advanced Techniques for Sports Massage Therapists (Hands-on with table)

An Overview of Cupping Therapy: History, Theory, Research, and Ethics (Hands-on with table)

This session explores how Cupping Therapy can be thoughtfully and effectively integrated into a client’s overall wellness plan. Participants will examine the history, theory, research, and ethics behind cupping in order to develop a strong foundation for both clinical application and client education. Emphasis is placed on understanding indications and contraindications, clearly communicating technique benefits, and supporting long-term client retention.

Rather than focusing on a single style of cupping, this course takes an evidence-informed approach, highlighting the range of techniques and intervention options available using modern cupping tools. Participants will also learn how cupping can reduce physical strain on the practitioner while expanding therapeutic versatility and health outcomes.

Materials Required: Please plan to bring or share a massage table if you select this class. Table storage will be provided. Cups will be donated by Cupping Canada for use during the session.

View Paul Kohlmeier's Bio

Manual Therapy to Eliminate Multiple Nerve Compression Patterns of the Upper Body (Hands-on with table)

Beginning with the head and neck, this session demonstrates how therapists can use positional release, muscle energy, myoskeletal alignment, and soft tissue balancing techniques to address OA and C1–C2 fixations, cervical kyphosis (military neck), spinal stenosis patterns, sprains and strains, and more upper body issues. Attendees will learn to address complex shoulder capsular adhesions, thoracic outlet, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Therapists will also apply home-care retraining strategies such as spinal decompression, nerve glides, and nerve tensioning, taking away practical tools to assess and care for common upper-body nerve compression patterns.

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

View James Waslaski's Bio