Yes it is for the client, and how much good are you doing if at the same time you hurt the low back or cramp a foot. The key to massage is adaptability in my opinion. Do you have a link to share for the geriatric bolster? I use both soft and firm depending on client need. Time to add/replace a few.

Glenda Bisbee said:

This reply comes almost a year later. I have been practicing massage for 14 yrs.

My practical experience has allowed me to be a substitute massage instructor and manage 65+ massage therapists for a busy day spa for 7 yrs. I also practice Reiki and Energywork. For 6 yrs I worked on a geriatric until she passed away in her early 90's. The geriatric bolsters are bigger and softer like a pillow and the vinyl makes them more sanitary then using a standard pillow even with a case on it. I currently work in a World Class 5 Diamond rated resort and these are the only bolsters used for the clients. Several of the services or modalities there incorporate lower leg stretches or are combined body treatments like scrubs which are not always practical to use bolsters. Bolsters are all about the comfort level of the client specifically if there are low back issues and face down under ankles with high arch issues. I find it hard to believe that someone would sacrifice the client's comfort because they felt it messed with their flow. As for interupting the energy flow in Reiki it would seem these individuals are claiming to have control over it. As an energyworker you are like a cord from the power source to the radio. Essentially a conduit not the radio or the electric source.

 I say enjoy the music and keep the Ego out of it and when your resources allow.... get a great geriatric bolster.

 My private clients love it which includes my Pro Hockey guys

Hi 

glenda,

 

Thank you so much for your sharing. I would be interested in knowing how to purchase a geriatric bolster as well. 

Glenda Bisbee said:

This reply comes almost a year later. I have been practicing massage for 14 yrs.

My practical experience has allowed me to be a substitute massage instructor and manage 65+ massage therapists for a busy day spa for 7 yrs. I also practice Reiki and Energywork. For 6 yrs I worked on a geriatric until she passed away in her early 90's. The geriatric bolsters are bigger and softer like a pillow and the vinyl makes them more sanitary then using a standard pillow even with a case on it. I currently work in a World Class 5 Diamond rated resort and these are the only bolsters used for the clients. Several of the services or modalities there incorporate lower leg stretches or are combined body treatments like scrubs which are not always practical to use bolsters. Bolsters are all about the comfort level of the client specifically if there are low back issues and face down under ankles with high arch issues. I find it hard to believe that someone would sacrifice the client's comfort because they felt it messed with their flow. As for interupting the energy flow in Reiki it would seem these individuals are claiming to have control over it. As an energyworker you are like a cord from the power source to the radio. Essentially a conduit not the radio or the electric source.

 I say enjoy the music and keep the Ego out of it and when your resources allow.... get a great geriatric bolster.

 My private clients love it which includes my Pro Hockey guys

I use bolsters , or pillows , or body support system, or no support what so ever...Whatever makes the client comfortable.  Thats it.