Massage Therapy Journal Fall 2024

Fall 2024 • 59

of attention. Lightly tapping the person’s shoulder or arm is an acceptable way of gaining your client’s attention. • Position yourself in relation to the impairment because one ear may function better than the other. • Do not assume that all individuals who have hearing loss use American Sign Language. • Hearing aids make sounds louder, but they do not clarify the meaning of what is heard. Observe the facial expressions and body language of the person you are communicating with to help determine whether your message was received and understood. • Do not use another person’s communication device. These are considered an extension of an individual’s personal space and should be respected. When speaking to someone with a hearing impairment it is best to: • Reduce background noise, including spa music. • Stand or sit near the person and look directly at them on the same level. • Be sure the person can see your face: • Avoid obscuring your lips or face with hands, books or other objects. • Do not chew gum, vape or smoke. • Beards and mustaches can reduce the ability of the person to read speech. • Be mindful of room lighting. Position yourself so that light is shining on your face, not in the eyes of the person (i.e., do not sit with your back to a window). • For therapists who choose to wear a mask while working, masks with clear windows can be used to facilitate communication. • Avoid unnecessary pacing and moving. • Say the person’s name before beginning the conversation. This allows them to focus their attention on you and reduces the chance of missing words at the beginning of the conversation. • Speak clearly and at a normal rate. • Do not shout or exaggerate mouth movements. • Keep language simple and concise. • If a word or phrase is not understood, use a different word or phrase instead of repeating yourself exactly.

• Pause between sentences or phrases. • Do not say, “Never mind, it is not important” if the client does not understand what you are saying. • Use facial expressions and body language to help clarify your verbal message. Demonstrate your message as much as possible. • Pay attention to the listener after you speak. If you notice a confused expression, tactfully ask if they understand you or if they would like you to repeat what you said. • If you give the person specific information, such as an appointment time or phone number, have them repeat the specifics to you and provide the information in writing on an appointment card, in an email or text message if they are technologically savvy. • Realize that everyone, especially someone with hearing loss, may have a harder time hearing and understanding when they are under stress or in pain. If the client is struggling with verbal communication, try written communication. Written communication may be more effective for clients who have hearing loss. A notepad or small whiteboard may be used, even in the treatment room, if necessary for effective communication. Massage Modifications for Clients With Hearing Impairment When working with individuals who have hearing loss, implement the following massage modifications for their safety and comfort. • Consider establishing a nonverbal communication method before beginning the massage, which is particularly important when the client is face down or prone. For example, ask the client to raise a hand if they would like more or less pressure during the massage, and that you will respond immediately. Use a 5-point pressure scale. The client can indicate the level of pressure they would like by extending their fingers on a single raised hand. NOTE : You or your client may prefer using this method to gauge pain instead of pressure. This nonverbal communication method is also ideal for clients in a massage chair. Here is an

amtamassage.org/mtj