Association Of Remedial Masseurs

Workshop Review by Carlos Kaiser

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An Anatomical Overview of the Spine and Treatment Techniques

Note any reduction in pulse pressure.
Indicates possible Thoracic Outlet Syndrome condition.
Note observations whether positive or nil.

Five main causes:

1. Anterior Scalenes compression of Brachial Plexus.

2. Costo-clavicular compression of the Brachial Plexus.

3. Presence of an extra Cervical Rib (X-ray required).

4. Pectoralis Minor causing compression of the Brachial Plexus.

5. Pancoast's Tumour in the apex of the lung (X-ray required).

Scapular Approximation is performed by instructing the client to flex their head "drop head forward" while bringing their outstretched arms into extension at the shoulder.

A positive test is indicated by pain in the Cervico-thoracic junction. Some clients may experience pain in the pectoral region or anterior shoulder.
Note observations whether positive or nil.

Workshop attendees trying out the new techniques.

Bilateral grip strength is performed by asking the client to gradually squeeze your wrists.

The client is normally stronger on their side of "handedness".
Note observations whether positive or nil.

Consensual light reflex is performed by shining a light into client's eyes and noting papillary constriction. Alternatively, cover one eye and note if the other eye dilates.

Note observations whether positive or nil.

A Vertebral Artery test is where the client lies supine with their eyes open. Gently turn the client's head to one side and slowly side-bend, extend the head over the edge of the table, and note any variation in pupillary size. Immediately stop the test if the client experiences any disturbance in vision, dizziness, ringing in the ears or any other sign of discomfort including pain.

This test excludes Vertebral Artery Insufficiency caused by compression of either Vertebral Artery in the neck.

Note observations whether positive or nil.

Repeat the test on the other side.

Mark continued the workshop with a practical demonstration of Cervical procedures, Lumbar procedures and Sacro-iliac techniques. After the demonstration, the participants paired off and worked on each other.

Cervical Procedures consisted of the application of some general massage to the cervical and upper thoracic spine areas. Particular attention was given to:

Workshop attendees discussing the effects

of the new techniques.