Massage Therapy Journal Fall 2024

Fall 2024 • 53

position, as the client may tire quickly if counterbalance is done in an unsupported, seated position. The three parts of the tripod are the client’s: (1) feet on the floor, (2) buttocks on the chair, and (3) hands or elbows on a firm surface, such as a table or even their own thighs. A desk topper can be used that attaches

• NOTE : It is not recommended that massage therapists physically lift or manually assist with client positioning, as it puts you both at risk for injury. There is a growing body of research on health care workers becoming injured in these circumstances. An article on patient handling published by OSHA states, “One major source of injury to health care workers is musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). 38 In 2017, nursing assistants had the second-highest number of MSD cases. There were 18,090 days away from work cases, which equates to an incidence rate of 166.3 per 10,000 workers, more than five times the average for all industries.” The article also claims that these injuries are largely due to overexertion related to manual patient handling activities, often involving manual lifting associated with transferring and repositioning patients. • Areas affected by paralysis can be massaged applications should not be used over these areas as they can cause burns from impaired or lack of sensation. Electric massaging devices such as massage guns should also be avoided over these areas if your state’s practice act allows their use. 39 using light to moderate pressure as long as precautions are observed. Heat or cold

to the edge of a table and allows the client to lean forward and use a face rest. • Be sure the wheels on a chair are locked during the massage. • If using a massage table, the client may ask for assistance independently transferring or moving onto and off of the table. Follow their instructions if it is within your personal ability and safety considerations. • Be sure the surface height of the table and the wheelchair seat height are the same to help with the transfer. A hydraulic or electric table that can adjust in height works well in these conditions and can be readjusted to the correct height for the therapist to perform the massage. Once the client is on the table, use plenty of bolsters to support them in a comfortable position. Reposition the table at the end of the session so the client can easily transfer back into the chair.

Images by Mark Hansen Photography

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