Index (ie)

Functional Musculoskeletal Anatomy (Part 1) – Palpation Skills

Understanding exactly how to find origins and insertions of muscles. How to locate and name the bony landmarks and identifying muscle functions.

Functional Musculoskeletal Anatomy (Part 2) – Muscle Relationships

Understanding the complexity of muscle functional relationships. Learning about synergists and antagonistic functional relationships.

Safe and Effective Delivery of Deep Tissue Techniques

Optimal massage skills: safe working posture and use of the lunge technique; safe and effective deep tissue techniques; versatility in patient positioning; and good working practice.

Soft Tissue Release (STR)

This technique relies on the effective use of a soft tissue ‘lock’ (i.e. applying and maintaining pressure) while simultaneously stretching the target tissue away from the lock. There are three basic types of STR: active, passive and resisted.

Muscle Energy Technique (MET)

This is a technique in which the patient’s own effort and movement (rather than the therapist) provides the primary force in treating the problem. There are two main concepts: post-isometric relaxation (PIR) and reciprocal inhibition (RI).

NMT, Friction, CTM and Combining Techniques

Neuromuscular technique (NMT) is a static pressure technique (ischemic compression) particularly powerful in treating trigger points and chronic muscle hypertonicity. Friction can be used as a derivative of NMT, but with movement either across or along fibres to break down adhesions and modify scar tissue. Connective tissue massage (CTM) affects the autonomic nervous system through a neurofascial reflex. This stimulates local blood flow, which will clearly be seen after treatment as the skin will appear very red.

BTEC Examination Day

Candidates will be required to sit a two-hour written exam and then take part in a 30 minute massage demonstrating all of the techniques required. This involves a BTEC external examiner actively marking candidates their practical exam. During this time you will be expected to answer an on-the-spot question on anatomy and your treatment rationale. In addition, you will also undertake a 10 minute client-assessment and treatment scenario.

All courses are