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Flatulence/Gas during the session
I don't remember any of my instructors touching on this subject while I was in school or after in any continuing education classes I have taken. I currently have at least two clients that can not get through our sessions without expelling gas.. some times from the medications they are taking they experience side affects of severe gastro-intestinal up-set... this creates pressure and pain in the abdominal area.
I do not want my client laying there feeling more discomfort by trying to not expell the gas while in the room with me, however, the ordor can be over whelming and that to can disrupt the session. I am aware that certain areas of the body I am treating can stimulate this out come..so while working in these areas I ask the client to advise me if they are feeling this happening. This is not an arena in which I want a surprise!
Looking for any suggestions or insights.. was this covered in any ethics classes?
Thanks
Sharon Sandin,LMP
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Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Lucianna Johnston on
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My take on this one is............it happens. I just hope that it doesn't happen when I am working the posterior thigh LOL! I don't make an issue of it. I figure it's only going to happen if client falls asleep or has more flatulence than the normal everyday person. Isn't a huge issue for me..happens once in a while and it doesn't bother me...then again, I teach yoga and it happens quite a bit in there....we always just smile...I just want everyone to feel comfortable.
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Permalink Reply by Jacqueline L. Lander on
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Hello my Sister in Healing. Flatulence is something that I felt my students needed to understand because it happens and I didn't want them to laugh or make comments that may be inappropriate when the time came for the hands on portion of Massage Clinics. I encourage my students not to fear one of the body's natural responses to relaxation and emphasize that should this occur they are to simply move to another part of the body and don't mess with fluffing the draping. I've been both the giver and receiver of flatulence in my 11 year career and I assure you there is often no advance warning. Just smile, say nothing and keep massaging. If all else fails, Vicks rubbed under your nose works well in combating unpleasant odors.
Another topic that is often avoided, but shouldn't be, is how to properly respond to the male client who is or becomes erect during a massage. I don't believe there was much that didn't come up in class concerning various behaviors on the part of the client and or practicing student.
Jackie
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Permalink Reply by Barbara Helynn Heard on
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Thanks for the question Sharron,
When someone farts audibly - the client on my table, a student in one my classes, a family member, or anyone else in a potentially uncomfortable situation, I exclaim with a tone of light hearted excitement, "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!".
Everyone in the room laughs! The tension is relieved.
The important point is the tone of voice - this must be said in a light hearted, celebratory tone of voice.
We've all been there, on both ends.
About smells form clients - this is something I accept in my practice - perfume, farts, smoke on the hands, etc. In my book, it comes with the territory.
Aloha,
Barbara Helynn Heard
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Permalink Reply by Laura Allen on
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I don't think asking a client to warn you before they fart is a reasonable request.
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he he...that's cute
Barbara Helynn Heard said:Thanks for the question Sharron,
When someone farts audibly - the client on my table, a student in one my classes, a family member, or anyone else in a potentially uncomfortable situation, I exclaim with a tone of light hearted excitement, "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!".
Everyone in the room laughs! The tension is relieved.
The important point is the tone of voice - this must be said in a light hearted, celebratory tone of voice.
We've all been there, on both ends.
About smells form clients - this is something I accept in my practice - perfume, farts, smoke on the hands, etc. In my book, it comes with the territory.
Aloha,
Barbara Helynn Heard
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