Cumberland Institute - Continuing Education Division

CE Credits: 8 Hours

Cost: $265 ($310.00 if registering within 7 of class)

This eight-hour class is designed to assist therapists in developing skills in using forearms for broad, flowing strokes, and using elbows for specific or point work, to give alternatives for the use of hands and thumbs. The use of long flowing strokes with the forearms allows therapists to treat large areas of the body quickly, while simultaneously layering into muscles with both depth and gentleness. The connective, repetitive flow of the strokes sinks clients into a deep state of relaxation, while each consecutive stroke opens the body more and more. Elbows offer an alternative to hands and thumbs for delivering deep, specific, pressure to points of tension.

Although most therapists are aware of the option of using forearms and elbows in their massage work, and would enjoy the opportunity of giving their hands a break, many feel awkward or reluctant to use these techniques on clients without first gaining skill in controlling pressure, coordinating movement, and experimenting with feeling the client’s response to the work using these parts of their arms.

Mindy Oldham, RN, LMT, introduces participants to these techniques for integration into their massage routine. Topics to be covered include:

• Forearm massage techniques for back, posterior arms, hips and legs
• Draping for long, connective forearm strokes
• Footwork to enhance body mechanics using forearms
• Positioning & supporting elbow work
• Learning to feel the body’s response when working with elbows
• Body mechanics for the different center of gravity required by these two techniques

This class will primarily be demo and supervised hands-on work, employing vigorous, repetitive arm movements and footwork. Please come to class well-rested and hydrated. If you have not practiced massage regularly in the past few months, you may find the physical demands of this class overwhelming. The techniques require working close to the body using generous lubrication, so dress accordingly. 

What to Bring:  Dress to be able to give very lubricated massage work. Bring your favorite lubrication, set of sheets for your table, blanket and one hand towel.

A lunch break will be taken midday. You may bring your lunch, or eat at one of the many restaurants located nearby. Call Teresa Greene at 615-370-9794 if you have any questions.

If you have any trouble the morning of your class, please contact Mindy Oldham, instructor, on her cell: 615-957-7129.