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Side lying position
I am reading an article on it now and it's speaking on discomfort. Is it easier than using prone/supine as far getting to certain areas better to you? I've tried it once since I've been practicing and because of my technique it was difficult for me.
Any advice?
Thanks in advance.
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Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by peppermint on
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Side position is great for accessing the Gall Bladder meridian (involved with whole body muscle tension), Temporalis, Masseter, Scalenes, Levator Scapula, shoulder ROM, lateral ribs, lamina groove of upper side, QL, Gluteus Medius and Minimus, TFL, Vastus Lateralis and Iliotibial Band, Peroneal muscles, and inner thigh and calf of lower leg. If you use compression techniques (Shiatsu) through the sheet, you don't have to fuss around with the draping.
KD
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Permalink Reply by Gordon J. Wallis on
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http://www.ralphstephens.com/seminar_description.htm
I remember when I first became a massage therapist. I had studied a traditional shiatsu massage that was done on a thin futon on the floor. Shortly after I began working in a clinic that did not want me working on the floor. They wanted me working on a massage table. I told them I didnt know how to massage very well with the client on the table. The lead therapist said to me. A good massage therapist can massage anyone in any position. Anyway, I learn a lot from DVDs. In the above link Ralph Stephens has a very good DVD on side lying massage. Buy it and watch it a half a dozen times. And you wont have any problems. Its good to remember that EVERYTHING IN THE BEGINNING IS DIFFICULT.
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Thank you, Gordon and Kathleen. Kathleen, everything that you have posted was in the article. I have to do A LOT of studying.
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Always evolving, that is how I think of my massage practice. When I first started, my session was technique driven, but with time, I started to appreciate the response of soft tissue to a hold or gentle stretch. Palpation and technique became intertwined. When I started working, I would make it a point to try a new technique, stretch, or add something different to my sessions. Everyday is a learning experience, always will be. Like Gordon, I learned a lot from watching others work, YouTube and DVDs are great sources of information.
Side lying is a wonderful position for some clients. It is a very comfortable, relaxing place for the client. Sinus congestion is rarely a problem when sidelying. It is a good position for some clients with low back pain and it also opens some areas of the body not easily accessible in prone or supine, Sidelying techniques are the same as you would use working prone or supine, nothing unique, just a different position. You may have to adjust your table height for better body mechanics, but the best thing is just try a few times. Have fun practicing!
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When I began working with patients in side lying position it was awkward for me. I struggled with draping, body mechanics and techniques. I watched you tube videos to help me get more comfortable. The thing that helped the most....getting a massage side lying! I got to feel what it felt like and decide what I did and didn't like and then make adjustments on how I work. I actually prefer to work glutes and shoulder side lying. But I don't like working on the neck. I am extra careful with draping. Use blankets and pillows so patient feels comfortable and not exposed. It helps them relax and enjoy massage. And that helps me relax too. :)
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Thank you! My job holds workshops with the Lead Therapists, and this will be my next topic to go over. Side-lying techniques. More importantly draping. I have a hard time getting that under control. I learn better by watching then doing before I start working on clients.
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Side lying is great for hip work! You can get to everything from there. You may also have a client who cannot be prone or supine for comfort reasons (allergies/congestion, elderly, injury) so this is a good option.
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Permalink Reply by Therese Schwartz on
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I use side lying for hip work, lateral quads and hamstring work, MFR around the ITB, and more. I will have clients wear shorts or yoga pants, depending on what I need to do. Then the need for draping disappears!
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I'd never massage anyone side lying unless that was the only way they could be comfortable. No need other wise.
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Just my opinion. But I can get to those lateral muscles easy enough without going to side lying.
Gordon J. Wallis said:I'd never massage anyone side lying unless that was the only way they could be comfortable. No need other wise.
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Permalink Reply by Neal Lyons on
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it really depends on the patient's needs. certain injuries may favor side lying positions over prone/supine, so it all just depends. as any good therapist would, it's best to have a chat with your patient before the massage to understand their needs, pain points and then cater your massage style to best fit their needs.
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Thank you everyone!
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