MASSAGE WORLD The Massage and Body Therapists Magazine
£2.50 May 2004
Pathology – the nervous system part two Healing Hands Network The Bowen Technique – a match for asthma 26
After the Medal the Massage
calendar I industry I news & views I products I research I resource I directory I faq
MASSAGE WORLD EDITOR
Wendy Kavanagh
FEATURES WRITERS
Julian Baker Su Fox Sandra Griffiths Polly Kerr
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Alex Demicheli Cassandra Hockey
SUB EDITOR & ADVERTISING
C J Newbury
PUBLISHERS
NK Publishing
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UK / EU: £25 UK Student: £20 Rest of World: £40 Single Copies: £2.50 ISSN 1474-4171
how to contact us Massage World Diorama Arts Centre 34 Osnaburgh Street London NW1 3ND
welcome editorial by Wendy Kavanagh
harity is the link in this months issue. There is a fascinating insight into work being undertaken in Eastern Europe after the traumas of war during the years 1992-6. Many of you may not even know that massage and other complementary therapists from the UK give their time and efforts for six months each year. They need our help and support.
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This years London Marathon was a great success as usual, raising large sums of money for numerous charities and their work. Massage always plays a part in the proceedings and we report on work done with the NSPCC on page 18. We also pay tribute to a major player in the world of massage and bodywork, Ken Woodward and send our thoughts to his family. Most of you will remember him by his work with the UK’s oldest massage establishment and association, but he also played a major role in the development of the profession both here and in Canada. He has been the inspiration for many. Is summer finally on its way? On a trip round a garden centre last week I was spoilt with a choice of plants and shrubs, intermingled with tables, chairs and parasols and thought it was the time of the year to bring some new colour and energy into the workplace. It is not just about Good Working Practice as discussed on page 28 but to surround yourself with energy giving greenery. For real fun choose a juncus effusus or ‘curly love’ which not only looks interesting but cleans the air and provides the world with oxygen, and don’t forget that plants need massage too.
T/F 020 7387 9111 E massageworld@btconnect.com DISCLAIMERS The publisher has taken all reasonable measures to ensure the accuracy of the information in Massage World and cannot accept responsibility for errors in or omissions from any information given in this or previous editions or for any consequences arising thereof. The Editor may not always agree with opinions expressed in Massage World but allow publication as a matter of interest, nothing printed should be construed as Policy or an Official Announcement unless stated. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means whether electronic, mechanical and/or optical without the express prior written permission of the publisher.
Wendy Kavanagh Editor
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“As a result of the advert, on the CThA Members Forum, I have one new holistic massage therapist who has joined the team and is very much appreciated by the clients� Donna Woodcock Massage Therapist
To find out how the CThA helped Donna and hundreds of other members last year just when they needed it, call a member of the CThA team on: 0845 202 2941or visit our website at: www.ctha.com
Professional help when you need it
contents Healing Hands Network – healing the scars a little bit
feature 7
Sandra Griffiths reports on what the Network does, what they have achieved, where they are going and how you can help.
Pathology – part six B
feature 10
The second half of pathology of the nervous system and the conditions that affect it, with recommendations for massage, by Su Fox.
Bowen the Technique: A match for asthma
feature 14
The increase in Asthma in both adults and children over the last ten years has brought us to look at how non drug based treatment can have great results, Julian Baker enlightens us.
After the Medal the Massage
feature 18
A report from this year’s London Marathon, the participants and the massage therapists who took part.
Good Working Practice
feature 28
regulars
A review of measures that are needed to ensure the welfare of you and your clients, whether you practice from home or a clinic.
editorial industry news and views student faqs a to z of therapies research product reviews resource directory calendar of events
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newsviewsnewsviews Mainstream Massage The University of Wales Institute, Cardiff is the first in Wales to open a degree course for students wanting to take a BSc (Hons) in Complementary Medicine. The course, offered by the School of Applied Sciences had its first intake in September 2003 and was so popular that a three year full-time course will be offered this year. Recently, a purpose designed clinic room has been opened on the campus, providing accommodation for groups of 12 students in order to provide holistic massage, reflexology and clinical aromatherapy. The room is well equipped and the aim is to further expand the facility in order to offer members of the public supervised, high quality treatments at low cost. Philip Harris, senior lecturer in complementary therapies says “we aim to become an important resource in the local community.” Regular readers of Massage World may also be interested to learn that one of our regular contributors Darien Pritchard is a lecturer at the University. If you want more information contact 029 2041 6044.
Touch is the Best Medicine Believe it or not the Red Cross has been providing a therapeutic care service in hospitals since the 1950’s, when it was known as beauty care. Originally it offered hand massages and manicures to women recovering in hospital but over the last four decades, the massage side has become more popular and so extended to include other areas of the body as well as the hands. Lincoln County Hospital is very lucky to have the services of Ann 6
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Regulation Update On the 28th April, the Foundation for Integrated Health held a conference to discuss the Department of Health’s proposals for statutory regulation of acupuncture and herbal medicine and the implications for regulation across the wider healthcare community. Becky Sidwell from the D of H outlines the next steps of the process, the 7th June is the closing date for consultation, during the summer the Department will analyse the responses and a draft order will be prepared in the autumn. It is therefore very important for you to get your comments in on the consultation document before June 7th. The consultation document does have a bearing on massage and other complementary therapies that are voluntary regulating.
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Do email us your News & Views! massageworld @massagelondon .co.uk
Hempsall who at 61 has been providing therapeutic care, alongside two other trained volunteers for the last seven years. Ann says ‘I just wish that more people would try massage – it has so many benefits.” The Sister on Stow Ward, one of the wards that receive the service says “Ann has been a godsend, massage helps the patients to relax and feel better about themselves.” The volunteers go on a training course and then every year or
On the Olympian Way A ground breaking partnership between the British Olympic Association (BOC) and the English Institute of Sport (EIS) has resulted in the establishment of the Olympic Medical Institute. The centre is a residential rehabilitation unit offering support for British athletes with an immediate aim to deliver them to Athens in the best possible shape. Giving injured athletes extensive programmes on offer in this ‘one stop shop’ is something that has previously been unavailable. Included in the centre is a hydrotherapy pool paid for by the Sport England Lottery Fund and the EIS, great for acute injuries and surgery recovery. The focus of the Olympic Medical Institute will be on those athletes unable to train because of injury, in order to bring them back to a level of rehabilitation that will enable them to resume their training. The EIS Director, Dr Roslyn Carbon heads up a team of six of the best sports physicians and a support team including sports physiologists, a nutritionist and psychologist. There are also two massage therapists, Christine O’Connor and Pedro Philippou in the run up to Athens. Dr Carbon says “Sport massage is important. It isn’t yet a part of the EIS, but that’s simply because of the time it’s taken to get clinics set up. In time, I would very much like to see the discipline work closely with the doctors and physiotherapists.”
so take refresher courses. They may no longer give you Guinness in hospital, but what better than a massage. Keep up the good work British Red Cross.
Healing Hands Network Heali n g t h e s c a r s a l i t t l e b i t very Saturday morning between April and October, two people meet at Heathrow airport to catch the noon flight to Sarajevo, via Zagreb. They may not know each other; they may be good friends. But they all have one thing in common: they are members of Healing Hands Network and they are on their way to help, and give hope to, the people who were caught up in the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
E The Charity was founded by Vicki Poole, and since February 1997 has sent teams of volunteers to Bosnia to bring hands-on relief. They have given over 9000 treatments. Sandra Griffiths from HHN tells of their dedication to the relief of suffering caused by war and disaster.
You probably remember Sarajevo for its alpine-like beauty – the city hosted the Winter Olympic Games in 1984. Or you may remember the media images of the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina. From 1992 until 1996, Sarajevo was under siege, sustaining more hostile attacks than any other European city since World War 2. During the siege its 500,000 inhabitants were trapped without adequate food, power, communications or healthcare. In Sarajevo alone, more than 10,000 adults and children were killed, and many more seriously injured. Add to this the atrocities of torture, ethnic cleansing and the scattering of the region with landmines, and you begin to understand the dreadful conditions under which people lived.
Shortly after the end of the war, in 1996, a group of complementary therapists were travelling through Sarajevo and realised how much their skills could help the survivors of the siege. They came back to the UK, recruited more volunteers, and Healing Hands Network was born. The therapists who formed the volunteer band at that time had to be staunch, feet on the ground, able to look after themselves in an emergency, able to work in the most dire conditions, and most importantly to be responsible for themselves. There was not even any communication with home, because all satellite lines were down. On their first few visits to Sarajevo the devastation was apparent even before they got off the plane. They drove into the city in open-mouthed silence. There wasn’t a single building that hadn’t been damaged. Many had been completely destroyed, others marked by the ravages of war. They treated people in blocks of flats where the lifts were broken and the staircases unlit, and where many of the flats were uninhabitable. They found people who had been raped or tortured, who had been in concentration May 2004 M|W
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specialreport healing the scars a bit camps or who had spent the war living on the front line, often in basements; people who had been terribly injured by shrapnel or landmines. The town was without gas for cooking or heating. The electricity was only switched on for a short while on odd occasions, and the water flowed for about fifteen minutes twice a day.
Wo r k ing under duress They also worked in the Kosevo Hospital, moving from patient to patient, armed with wet wipes and tea tree oil, and sometimes hallucinating about having a shower. Their accommodation was in a bombed-out block of flats, most of which was devastated. The doors, lifts, post boxes, lower stairs and much else had been destroyed. After dark it was pitch black, so without candles or a torch and an ample supply of batteries, it was sometimes difficult to see inside – and hopeless outside. In people’s homes and the makeshift clinics amenities were minimal, and getting to them was a story in itself. One could awake to gunfire or get home in the evening to find all the SFOR troops patrolling the streets, obviously expecting trouble. On occasions they were told by the ‘friendly’ bomb disposal unit not to even look out of the windows, let alone venture out of the building. Wherever they went there was the danger of landmines, which had been planted indiscriminately, even in the cemeteries ... which became only too apparent when they attended the burial of the husband of one of their interpreters. Today Sarajevo is regaining its strength as a modern European city in a region of great natural beauty. But sadly the scars of war are deep, and beneath the apparent growth and redevelopment of the city is the sense of sadness, loss and despair of the people. 8
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The “clinic” Healing Hands Network, which became a registered charity in 1997, now operates from a pleasant rented house in the old part of the city, near the Turkish quarter with its cobbled streets full of little shops and cafes. We have two large, bright, wellequipped treatment rooms, as well as comfortable accommodation for our therapists. Our members are all professional complementary therapists, offering a whole range of treatments massage, reflexology, aromatherapy, physiotherapy, reiki and spiritual healing. They are all volunteers and have to prove their qualifications and their fitness to work in sometimes stressful conditions, and raise the funds needed for their trip – currently up to £600. They work in teams of four – two arrive every Saturday and stay for two weeks.
On the road to recovery Although the city is recovering, the people we treat have not changed – they are still suffering, physically or emotionally, from the war. Many have lost their homes, their loved ones and often their hope. Although the war has been over for nearly ten years, physical and psychological scars takes a long time to heal. As one of our members explains, “At the moment of trauma, or during the slow chill of applied fear, the damage cannot be assessed and will be different for each person. While gunshot wounds bring a wide but relatively predictable trauma range, intense fear, shock and horror are wilder cards. It may take years before their effect is understood.” People come to us from the Association of Concentration Camp Victims, from the Association of Civil
specialreport healing the scars a bit Victims of War, from the Centre for Torture Victims, or just because they have heard about the work we are doing and need our help. We have also worked with the local Red Cross in one of their feeding centres, and in a project to help the women of Srebrenica to rebuild their lives after the much-publicised attack on their town at the very end of the war, when 7,500 men were taken away and killed. And in 2003 we started projects in Konjic and Mostar, two towns to the south of Sarajevo, which we hope to continue and expand in 2004. We treat everyone who comes to us, regardless of race, colour or creed, and although we listen to what they have to say, we are careful not to take sides; in a situation which has set neighbour against neighbour, it’s important not to be judgmental.
Holis t i c a p p r o a c h The work is tremendously rewarding for our therapists, who often feel that they have learnt a great deal from the clients. Holistic approaches to healing are accepted unconditionally in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and as a result of this, the therapeutic benefits we are able to achieve are sometimes greatly accentuated. One of our members, who was in Sarajevo last year, said, “Despite their appaling experiences, the people keep going, demonstrating by their lives an indomitable spirit, a will to live and to survive, often with constant physical, emotional and mental pain. They hold their grief and anguish with so much courage. There is no doubt about the value of the work we are doing in Sarajevo – it is wonderful to be given the opportunity to help.” Clients report reduced pain, increased mobility, improved quality of sleep, an increase in optimism and hope and a wealth of other positive effects.
M a k i ng a difference And although it’s no holiday, most people find their two weeks in Sarajevo great fun – living with three other people, and working as a team, can be a challenge, but there is plenty to see and do in this fascinating city with its museums and art galleries, churches and mosques, restaurants and cafes, and shops selling exotic goods from the east as well as designer fashion from the west. It’s impossible not to be touched by these people. Wherever we go, we are welcomed with extreme kindness and hospitality. The stories we hear are haunting and heart-breaking, but people respond to our treatments in a very special way. Having treated nearly 10,000 people in Bosnia we know that we have made a difference. We help people to move on, and we try to heal the scars, just a little bit. Healing Hands Network pioneered its unique and exciting work in Sarajevo, and we have stayed there because the need is still so great. But we hope in time to work in other parts of the world where the need is even greater. To achieve our aim, we need help – more members and more money. If you can help in any way – by volunteering or by giving us your financial support or help with fundraising and publicity –
please telephone Sandra Griffiths on 01885 410620, or look at our website: www.healinghandsnetwork.org.uk. or www.charitynet.org Registered Charity No 1080268 Healing Hands Network Bank House, Stoke Bliss, Tenbury Wells, Worcs. WR15 8QH May 2004 M|W
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Conditions That Affect the Central Nervous System Pathology - part six b Su Fox Su Fox is a psychotherapist, massage and craniosacral therapist in private practice in North London. She lectures in anatomy, physiology and pathology for The Massage Training Institute and Chiron Centre
In last months issue, we covered the structural disorders relating to the nervous system and this month we look more closely at the conditions that after the CNS and recommendations for massage where appropriate. All pathology could be said to involve the nervous system, since one of its functions is to inform the whole body about any imbalances, harmful bacteria or viruses.
Stroke ( c e r e brovascular a c c i d ent, CVA) If the blood supply to the brain is affected, either by a clot (thrombosis) cutting off supply to the tissues or by a blood vessel bursting and leaking into the tissue, then that part of the brain tissue is damaged, which, depending on the part of the brain involved, may result in loss of speech, movement, sensation, thinking ability, or sphincter control. Strokes can be fatal.
Recommendations for massage There is a very high risk of a second stroke occurring within one month of 10
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the first, so do not massage someone at all during this period, for your own protection. There is a lower risk of a stroke occurring up to six months after the first and during this period it is advisable to ask for a doctor’s permission to massage. A stroke patient may well have other cardiovascular problems that you need to take into account when planning a treatment. Avoid any techniques that stimulate the circulation.
Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) A TIA is a mini stroke lasting a few hours from which the person recovers with no or little damage. TIA’s are caused by clots in the arteries of the neck which temporarily cut off blood supply to the brain.
Recommendations for massage Since there is a high risk of further TIA’s, medical advice should be sought before massage is given.
Meningitis Meningitis is inflammation of the
newsfeature the nervous system: structural disorders meninges, which are the connective tissue coverings of the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms include fever, severe headache, and a stiff neck. In the acute stage, this condition is a total contraindication and requires hospital treatment. There is no reason to prevent someone who has recovered from meningitis from having massage.
S p i n a l cord injury Symptoms of spinal cord injury depend on the site of the damage. Generally speaking, there will be impairment of motor and sensory functions below the injury, although some motor reflexes that are independent of brain control remain intact. There may be spasticity and loss of tone in the muscles, or muscles that spasm to touch and are floppy. A person with spinal cord injury has to come to terms with life changing impairment, and if the injury is recent, the person’s mental and emotional state needs to be taken into account.
Recommendations for massage Mild spina bifida is a local contraindication to massage in the lumbar sacral area. For severe cases, see recommendations for spinal cord injury.
Recommendations for massage
A he r n i a t e d o r ‘slip p e d ’ d i s c A herniated disc refers to compression of a nerve root arising when a vertebral disc ruptures and part of the contents is displaced onto the spinal nerve. People sometimes refer to any sharp back pain as a slipped disc, but an actual slipped disc is very painful and debilitating.
Recommendations for m assage If the pain in the spinal muscles near the site is on one side only, this is more likely to be a trapped nerve, which massage may ease. If the pain is on both sides of the spine, it is more likely to be a slipped disc in which case refer the client to an osteopath, chiropractor or physiotherapist. When the most acute stage has subsided, gentle massage, sensitively applied, may help relieve pain from associated muscle spasms.
Massage is beneficial for physical reasons and also for general well being. Negotiate with the client about position, use of supports, pressure of strokes used and when moving joints, both as part of the treatment and when helping the person into position. Maintaining joint flexibility and circulation to muscles is important. Use gentle rhythmic, repetitive strokes. Muscles that spasm to touch respond to this type of contact. If there is also sensory loss take great care with pressure and joint movements since the client will not be able to give accurate feedback about what you are doing. Wheelchair users are susceptible to pressure sores, and these areas should be avoided. Non ambulant people also have thin skin on the soles of the feet, so avoid pressure or friction strokes here.
Poliomyelitis Since the advent of vaccination for polio in 1957 this condition has disappeared in the UK although there are people who were affected before this date. The polio virus affects motor neurons in the spinal cord and can result in paralysis. The muscles become floppy and wasted and the antagonists become over stretched to compensate.
Recommendations for massage All the recommendations for spinal cord injuries apply.
S p i n a bifida
Parkinson’s disease
This condition is a congenital defect in the vertebrae, usually in the lumbar spine. The bone fails to form properly over the spinal cord, leaving parts exposed. In the more common mild form, there may be no symptoms or some weakness in the legs. In the severe form there is paralysis and impairment of bladder function.
This degenerative disorder affects voluntary movements and is characterised by muscle rigidity and sluggishness, and tremors arising from uncontrollable muscle twitching. If the speech muscles are affected, communication may become difficult. Stress can make tremors worse. Parkinson’s disease is associated with May 2004 M|W
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newsfeature the nervous system: structural disorders an imbalance of neurochemicals in the brain, particularly dopamine.
Recommendations for massage Massage may be beneficial as a means of stimulating circulation bringing nutrients to the muscles and removing wastes. If there is also sensory loss take great care with pressure and joint movements since the client will not be able to give accurate feedback about what you are doing. Assist the client into position for treatment if he suffers poor muscle control or tremors. With increasing stiffness, a client with Parkinson’s disease may not be able to get on and off a treatment couch and you may want to massage in a chair or on the floor. Treatment decisions need to take into account the person’s condition on that day, as well as other conditions that may be present, such as thin skin.
be communication or learning difficulties. Hemiplegia refers to paralysis on one side of the body only, quadraplegia to paralysis of all four limbs and paraplegia to the lower half of the body.
Recommendations for massage As for spinal cord injuries. If the person finds it hard to communicate suggest using an advocate who understands the person well.
M u l t i ple s c l e r osis (MS) Degeneration of the myelin sheath around the axons in the CNS results in the condition known as multiple sclerosis. The symptoms depend on the part of the brain affected, and include loss of vision, weakness and numbness in the legs. A person with MS has periods of remission from symptoms, sometimes for years at a time.
Recommendations for massage The recommendations for spinal cord
all pathology injuries apply, but also remember that people with MS get tired very easily, so working for too long a period, or could be avoid using techniques that could deplete said to the body. involve the C e r e bral palsy are a number of conditions that nervous There result from damage to the brain during or soon after birth. There is always system some lack of muscle control, and may 12
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References Su Fox and Darien Pritchard. Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology for the Massage Therapist, 2001; Corpus Publishing Gordon MacPherson, ed. Black’s Medical Dictionary. 2002. A & C Black Kalyani Premkumar. Pathology A to Z -- a handbook for massage therapists .VanPub Books 1996 Dr Tony Smith, ed. The British Medical Association Complete Family Health Encyclopedia; 1990; London: Dorling Kindersley Peter Wingate & Richard Wingate. The Penguin Medical Encyclopedia. 1996. Penguin Books. Werner, Ruth. A Massage Therapist’s Guide to Pathology. 2002 Lippincott Williams and Wilkins Wall, Patrick 1999. The Science of Suffering. Weidenfield and Nicholson, London. Acknowledgments Material in this article is taken in part from Fox & Pritchard’s Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology for the Massage Therapist. With thanks to Rik Fox, consultant anaesthetist, National Hospital for Spinal Injuries.
The Bowen Technique A ma t c h f o r A s t h m a Julian Baker is the Director and Principal Instructor of E.C.B.S. Originally from London, he undertook extensive training in The Bowen Technique whilst living in Australia. Julian returned to Britain in 1992, and as a result of his devotion and boundless energy, has been responsible for the rapid growth of the technique in the UK.
he incidence of asthma in both adults and children has seen an exponential increase over the last ten years and continues to rise year on year. Although many theories have been put forward for this worrying trend there seems to be no end to the steady rise in both diagnosed cases and more worrying deaths from the disease.
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Last year there were 1500 deaths from asthma in the UK and although the vast majority of attacks will never be life threatening, it can still be a very frightening experience for those having the attack, as well as anyone being around when it happens. The treatment for asthma has, for the most part, been drug based with the emphasis on control rather than cure and there is an underlying belief amongst most in the medical profession that asthma is incurable. The problem, from a complementary perspective, is that there seems to be a very wide gamut of symptoms that can fall under the asthma banner. A child presenting with a tightness in the chest can very easily end up being labelled asthmatic and prescribed inhalers which will be with them for many years.
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An Australian system of soft tissue bodywork called The Bowen Technique is being used to combat asthma and, in many cases, is resulting in the complete elimination of inhalers. Named after its inventor Tom Bowen, it was introduced to the UK in 1993 and has been growing at a rapid rate ever since. It employs gentle moves across the body, using the therapist’s thumbs and fingers and, as well as being very gentle on the client, Bowen also takes the physical strain away from the therapist. Although incredibly effective for respiratory problems as well as a wide range of other problems, Bowen is clear about what it is and isn’t. When Bowen was brought to the UK from Australia the principle training body here, E.C.B.S., adopted the principles of the Australian Natural Therapy Association which state that a complementary therapy must not:
a) diagnose b) treat specific conditions c) alter or prescribe medications d) make claims as to outcomes
newtechniques the bowen technique: a matc h for asthma These rules form the backbone of what natural medicine is all about and are the benchmark of any good natural therapy. So how can Bowen claim to have such success with asthma, without treating the specific condition?
Asth m a t i c o r n o t ? In my opinion, most asthma is simply wrongly diagnosed. At a guess I would say that around 60% of the people wandering around with a diagnosis of being asthmatic, have had little more than a tight chest at one stage or another, accompanied by some wheezing and coughing. Although quite scary, it’s not really asthma in the true sense of the word and releasing the diaphragm with something like Bowen will often help. The thing to remember about asthma is that it is effectively a bronchial condition rather than a lung condition. During an asthma attack, the smooth muscle of the bronchioles contract, narrowing the airways and can even close down completely. The thing to remember here is that for the most part the patient isn’t trying to get breath in but is trying to get it out. The more they struggle to exhale, the
more the diaphragm spasms and the situation becomes increasingly desperate. As adults there are two main ways that we breathe: either with costal (chest) breathing, or with diaphragm (abdominal) breathing. During exercise or laboured breathing other muscles kick in to assist the diaphragm and these include, among others, the sternocleidomastoid which lifts the sternum, the scalenes which lift the first two ribs and the pectoral minors which lift the third to the fifth rib. Normal breath, known as eupnoea, involves a combination of shallow chest breathing and deep abdominal breathing, but every breath involves the most important of all the breath muscles, the diaphragm. A dome shaped thin muscular structure; the diaphragm is the floor of the thoracic cavity and the ceiling of the abdominal. It also keeps us alive as it accounts for the movement of around 75% of the air that comes into the lungs during inhalation. As we breathe in, the diaphragm contracts and flattens, dropping the pressure inside the lungs and allowing the air to rush in.
Last year there were 1500 deaths from asthma in the UK May 2004 M|W
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the bowen technique: a match for asthma As we exhale, the diaphragm relaxes and makes the thoracic cavity smaller, increasing the air pressure inside the lungs.
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It is my experience that someone with asthma has an imbalance in the diaphragm and this, combined with many other factors, can set up an asthma attack which it is difficult to get out of without the use of nebulisation or the emergency Bowen asthma move.
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When talking about certain conditions or problems, it is important to understand that although we have specific procedures for parts of the body, these are principally for the purposes of education. The Bowen Technique is not a series of procedures, but a system of bodywork which, in the hands of experienced practitioners, will be adapted to the needs of each client. If we are to address the diaphragm however, from a Bowen perspective we would need to break it down into its component parts: Sternal, Costal and Lumbar. Origins Lumbar Part: The upper two or three lumbar vertebrae. Costal Part: The lower six ribs and their costal cartilages. Sternal Part: Two small slips of muscle attach to the back of the xiphoid process, the lower tip of the breastbone.
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As we have already said, there are many muscles involved in the process of respiration and as Bowen therapists we will look at the whole body when addressing problems. Many asthma clients will have neck and shoulder pains, TMJ imbalances and intercostals spasm. All of these can be addressed, and at the same time working the diaphragm.
Stoppers In a standard Bowen treatment, one of the upholding principles is that of the use of ‘Stoppers.’ These are moves made over areas of stress loading in the body and they access stored energy and tension. One of these areas is in the lower lumbar curve, level with about L3/4. The move at this point creates a very energetic surge through all the spinal structures, as well as releasing tension held in the area. Although the principle of stoppers can be applied anywhere along the spine, the other principle area worked is the upper curve of the spine, level with the lower edges of the scapulae. By working these areas with asthmatics, we have energised and relaxed the two areas of breathing. Additional moves across the upper erector spinae group, which lock the thoracic spine, are then added in order to create a triangle of tension above the xiphoid. When we turn our client, we reverse the order of the moves made on the back, creating a ‘cross your heart effect.’ At this stage everything is now focussed onto the final move, a gentle pull down along the rectus abdominus from the lower part of the xiphoid process.
newtechniques the bowen technique: a match for asthma
Rema r k a b l e r e s u l t s Written down like this it might seem complex, but in fact is very simple and generally very quick. The results however can be quite remarkable. Julian Wilson is now a busy Bowen therapist based in Hexham, Northumberland, but remembers his first day of Bowen very clearly. Having had asthma since the age of twelve, Julian volunteered to be demonstrated on when the procedure was being taught. He said, “I remember thinking that it was very quick, but then suddenly I was extremely cold and felt more than a little sick” That evening, and against advice, he decided to see what would happen if he didn’t take the inhalers that he had been taking daily since early teens.
and as humans we all can’t break down lactose easily. For a chesty asthmatic a stomach full of mucus forming milk is no help and there is more than enough calcium in many other foods. The final Bowen element that is the real lifesaver is the emergency asthma procedure. As the name suggests, this is the one move that we should all know, as it has proved many times that it can not only stop an asthma attack in the middle of it, but can even stop it before it starts. Details of the emergency move and links to the childhood asthma website can be found at www.thebowentechnique.com. A list of accredited Bowen practitioners can also be found on this site, together with more information, research outcomes and further articles and links.
“I was nervous at first, but when I felt fine the next morning, I decided to leave them alone that day too. It went day to day from there, but six months later I met my teacher Julian [Baker] again and handed him my inhalers that I hadn’t touched since that day in Manchester.”
Rese a r c h s t u d y In order to test the diaphragm approach, Bowen therapist and E.C.B.S. teacher Alastair Rattray has started a long term study of asthma in children and the effects of Bowen. The results have been extraordinary and although there is some time before all the results are in, Alastair is very positive. “We are seeing children time and time again whose symptoms are simply vanishing in the space of two or three treatments. Their parents are amazed and simply cannot believe what they are seeing. It is transforming lives in a matter of weeks.” An important part of the approach when using Bowen with asthmatics is to encourage the reduction of dairy intake. The mucus forming properties of milk and cheese are well established
For more information or full course prospectus: European College of Bowen Studies 38 Portway, FROME, Somerset BA11 1QU T/F: 01373 461 873 E: info@thebowentechnique.com W: www.thebowentechnique.com Julian Baker is the author of The Bowen Technique, the first book to be written about this therapy, which was published in September 2001 by Corpus Books.
as Bowen therapists we will look at the whole body when addressing problems May 2004 M|W
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After the Medal the Massage The L o n d o n m a r a t h o n 2 0 0 4
he cold grey weather and pouring rain may, strangely, have been almost perfect conditions for those running in the London marathon but they could hardly be described as ideal for the thousands of spectators who bravely turned out to cheer on the participants. The loyal and bedraggled masses must surely have been envious of the fortunate minority under cover in the various hospitality and reception tents, among which were a group of graduates and students from a London massage college sheltering in the NSPCC hospitality suite. The therapists were there to complete their own marathon – massaging all the weary folk who had run the 26 miles in aid of the charity.
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Ten tables were set up and over the course of the afternoon the 14 therapists managed an amazing 60 massages. Rush hour came at about 3.30pm when the majority of runners staggered, crawled or sprinted over the finishing line in a time of approximately four hours. Several of the runners said it had been the thought of the massage awaiting them at the finish 18
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that had kept them going over the course, which was both gratifying and a little daunting – what if the reality didn’t live up to the expectation?! However, everyone seemed very happy – the mood was one of excitement and a huge sense of achievement. Indeed, one young man must have thought he was dreaming - one therapist massaging each leg while his girlfriend fed him chocolate! Although the overwhelming feeling was one of buoyancy, the actual massage was aimed at calming down the overworked muscles and limiting stiffness and soreness following the marathon. Also on hand was a first aider to deal with any serious injuries. Although there were plenty of blisters, luckily there were only three more severe problems – knee and hamstring injuries, particularly vulnerable areas in runners. The hamstrings are at risk because they are regions of relative inflexibility, although ‘pulls’ are actually more likely to occur in sprinters than marathon runners as a result of taking long strides during speedwork. The knees are exposed to trauma because
they take so much impact. There is a specific condition known as ‘Runner’s Knee’ caused by the kneecap not moving smoothly in its groove which can lead to a great deal of pain, but there are all manner of other complications which can occur around this crucial joint. The Achilles tendon is another problem area often associated with runners – it can become over-stretched through an increase in training or if there is any stiffness in the sole of the foot. This is Achilles tendonitis. Perhaps the most common injury and one that affects most runners at some stage or other is shin splints. Pain occurs over the inner border of the shin as a result of muscles swelling and reducing blood supply. The inflammation may be due to tendonitis, compartment syndrome or other muscle damage. It is clear that because of the high impact nature of running, it can lead to more injuries and in more places than many other sports. As previously discussed, the legs are obviously the areas most susceptible to damage,
specialreport after the medal the massage but the lower back can also suffer as the joints are jarred and compressed with every stride. As well as this, runners are well-known to be some of the worst culprits when it comes to refusing to accept that they have an injury and will not take adequate time off from training to recover – this obviously puts their bodies under more strain. This is one of the most important factors in the healing process, but, as always, prevention is better than cure and taking the time to warm up muscles properly and stretch them before and after running can guard against injuries. The benefits of good footwear are also often underestimated and can make all the difference. Massage also has its part to play, both in prevention and treatment. Talking to the runners it was interesting to discover that a couple of them had included regular massage in their marathon training programme. For both of them, the 2004 London marathon was their first attempt at the distance and they had come to include massage for different reasons. Philip had begun going to a therapist because his wife had recommended that it might help reduce the stiffness and fatigue he was experiencing, especially in his legs, as he increased his training distances. He had initially been somewhat sceptical as it was also his wife who had suggested he take up running in the first place! Louise on the other hand is an experienced runner, and on deciding to take up the challenge of a marathon carefully researched every aspect of training and was keen that massage should form part of it. Philip had been receiving massages once a week for five weeks leading up to the marathon and said that he had immediately noticed an improvement even after the first session. His therapist had worked mainly on his legs although she had also aimed to reduce the knots in his shoulders and neck. He attributed sleeping better to
the massage and also said it was her constant pestering that made him more disciplined at doing stretches. He had obviously found the training very tough and had experienced a great deal of pain but said that the massages had relieved some of the soreness and made him able to face continuing with the training schedule. He completed the 26 miles in just over four and a half hours and was looking forward to another massage from his therapist later in the week. It was very pleasing to hear him say that he is now totally won over by massage and intends to keep it up. By contrast, Louise had begun her massage sessions with an extremely positive opinion which had only increased over the course of the seven weeks leading up to the marathon in which she had included it in her training. She told us that her main problem had been her right Achilles tendon which had become extremely aggravated. She said her therapist had also focused mostly on her legs, at first just her calves but later including the hamstrings as they became tight and sore with her increased training. Louise couldn’t speak highly enough of the benefits of massage and said it always eased her muscles and left them feeling less tight and enabled her to prepare for her next run. She fully intends to continue with massage and was already talking about concentrating on regaining the speed in her running that she feels she lost as a result of long-distance training. At the end of a long afternoon which left the therapists maybe not quite as exhausted as the runners but justifiably worn out, it was pleasing to know that gradually people are becoming more aware of the advantages offered by massage. The stories we heard confirmed that this is the case both in preparation for a marathon and after the event for relaxing and aiding the repair of damaged muscles. Article by Polly Kerr May 2004 M|W
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faqs!faqs?faqs!faqs?
STUDENT Q&A
Let me introduce myself, I am Isabelle Hughes and will endeavour each month to answer all those questions that never seem to get answered or that you forgot to ask. You can write or email me at Massage World. Here is a selection of recent enquiries and their replies: Q. Being new to this profession, I have a question about sending clients birthday cards. Is it tacky to include a discount for the next massage as part of the card, or would it be viewed as a nice gift? Also would it be ok to put an expiry date on the offer? A. I do not think it is ‘tacky’ at all. In fact it is the ideal opportunity to remind your client you are still around and encourage them to think about making another appointment. There is also no problem adding an expiry date, after all you do not want them coming back for a treatment several years later. Q. Are there any facilities that offer free stay in exchange for providing services during the stay? I know that tennis, golf, yoga and aerobics instructors often get the opportunity to stay at great resorts on this barter system. Does this also apply to massage and complementary therapists? A. I am sure that there are openings for stay in return for workshops and treatments but as they would be extremely popular, you would have to plan well in advance. I would suggest that several months before you are thinking of doing this, get together a suitable CV and photo and send to a focused list of centres you are interested in, together with a variety of available dates. The more multi-skilled you are, the more advantage you will have over others with the same idea.
The Neals Yard Agency advertises many Centres abroad and may be able to help. You could even place your own advert with your intentions in their newsletter. Visit www.nealsyardagency.com Q. I will be starting my training soon and am in the fortunate position of already having a position with a race team lined up. Is there a specific area of massage I should focus on? They race super bikes and so lean over the bikes, using the upper body for turning. A. The vastus lateralis, if over developed, displaces and foreshortens the ITT laterally. These symptoms are classic of cyclists. Intense pain along the outside knee is consistent with problems, which usually occurs after about on hour of cycling. Besides deep tissue and some trigger point work, stretching is very helpful and will help your team recover quicker from injuries. You will no doubt cover all of these areas in your training. There is also an excellent American book by Bob Anderson simply called ‘Stretching’. Q. I have a new client who is currently seeing a physiotherapist for work on his ankle. After surgery he has a limited range of movement which has also resulted in some tension up the back. I would like to use some techniques to help recovery but as a part time therapist feel I may not have the insight. A. If you feel really unhappy about treating the client, then refer him to someone who specialises in remedial or sports massage, however general Swedish massage will be of benefit and if you feel you need to work at a deeper level than normal, take your table height down a notch to get extra leverage, remember your body mechanics and work very slowly, not forgetting to warm the muscles up first with effleurage.
Isabelle Hughes has been practising and teaching massage since 1989 and is also an external examiner for massage therapy. Drawing on her experience as an ante-natal teacher with the National Childbirth Trust, she currently runs workshops for practitioners on Massage for Pregnancy and Labour and has contributed to books on the subject.
Q A
If you would like your questions answered, please send them by post or email to our address on page 3, marked Student Q&A. May 2004 M|W
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a to z of therapies work your way around the world of massage ach month we look at all the mainstream modalities of massage and bodywork, their background, what they comprise of and how you find out about training and practising.
for over 5000 years. It originated in
Last month was the final letter of the alphabet Z in this series of underpinning knowledge. This month we look at a mix of disciplines that have been brought to our attention since the series started – the odds and sods so to speak. Do let us know if there are any others we have missed along the way, remembering that they should only be relating to massage or bodywork. Email us at massageworld@btconnect.com
In the last fifty years, an amazing
E
Japan but also has roots in China. Shinsei Ota published the first book, specifically on the topic in the 20th Century.
woman Shizuku Yamamoto, developed a technique called Barefoot Shiatsu and together with Patrick McCarty brought the technique to the West. Shizuku, who is now in her eighties, still practices and gives workshops on her technique.
the treatment As in regular Shiatsu, the client lies on a floor mat or futon, fully clothed
Barefoot Shiatsu
Kairos
and the therapist works with the whole of the foot on specific areas, applying pressure where needed. Usually the therapist will use a frame
what is it? Kairos is a very specific form of hands on treatment that works on an emotional and physical level. It works on the belief that the human body has the potential for healing and transforming pain. This Greek word means ‘this moment in time’ or right moment. The homonym for Chiros also means ‘hands’. It is a combination of Rosen, Gestalt and healing methods. It is very beneficial in helping people to relax and improve health and long term pain.
a short history
or rope for balance purposes. This
standards
Carol Logan practised Shen since 1993 and has been an instructor since 1998. Kairos was born out of the Shen Organisation that split in 2002. There are now instructors in England, Scandinavia and the USA.
There are no Occupational Standards
the treatment
way the pressure can be firm but comfortable. The treatment will usually last an hour and will also involve some assisted stretching.
at present but there is presently work
what is it? This eponymous labelling explains all. It is a method of applying physical pressure to the body with the foot, involving total communication between therapist and client. The aim is to normalise the flow of Ki (energy) by applying pressure to weak or ‘obstructed’ areas. Barefoot Shaitsu is beneficial in reducing stress and fatigue and encouraging increased vitality and energy.
a short history
towards achieving this.
useful addresses The Shiatsu Society Eastlands Court St Peters Road, Rugby Warwickshire CV21 3QP
☎
01788 555051
W
www.shiatsu.org
UK Barefoot Shiatsu Maria Serrano 17 Ely Road, St Albans Herts AL1 5NA
Shiatsu has been practised and evolved as a form of Oriental Therapy
Firstly a case history will be taken and then the client lies a specially designed Kairos cradle, fully clothed. The therapist will then place the hands gently on the client and move to a new position every few minutes. Each session is unique and the experience different each time. There may be warm, tingling or other physical sensations. Other times there may be a sense of very deep relaxation or visonary images or colours.
☎
01727 842 495
✉
maria.p.serrano@care4free.net
standards There are no National Occupational Standards at the present time. May 2004 M|W
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a to z of therapies work your way around the world of massage
u s e f u l a d dr e s s e s
the treatment
Association for Kairos Therapy UK Edinburgh Information Centre 7 Alderbank Place Edinburgh ☎ 0131 478 4780 W www.kairostherapy.com kairos@onetel.com
Osteomyology is a very fluid form. A treatment plan might include a small amount of nutritional advice, massage, aromatherapy, kinesiology, Bowen, in fact it embraces a very broad church and may not be that different to what a multi discipline practitioner already offers. In the States this is often referred to as Integrated Bodywork.
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Osteomylogy
standards There is a National Occupational Standard for Massage. Charter governs physiotherapy and Osteopathy and there are several Regulatory Working Groups on other techniques, working towards Voluntary Self-Regulation.
useful addresses
what is it? Osteomyology is a collective term for disciplines used when working on nerve, bone and muscles with an aim to help relieve pain and improve the healing process of clients. It is very important not to relate or confuse this in any way with Osteopathy that has protection of title and regulated by an Act of Parliament.
a short history The Association of Osteomyologists was formed back in 1993 to bring together practitioners who have a high degree of expertise similar ambitions for those skills. In the beginning this proved to be rather difficult, but over the years exchanging and inter-relating treatments has evolved itself, encouraged by client success. 24
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The Association of Osteomyologists 80 Greenstead Avenue Woodford Green Essex, IG8 7ER ☎ 020 8504 1462 W www.osteomyology.co.uk info@osteomyology. co.uk
✉
From next month, we are introducing a new series of underpinning knowledge - The World of Massage. Each month, we will look at an indigenous massage style, working our way across the globe. Some techniques you will have heard of before and others may inspire you to find out a little more.
researchroomresearch The shortterm effects of myofascial trigger point massage therapy on cardiac autonomic tone in healthy subjects Joseph P.A. Delaney FIBMS, King Sun Leong BMedSc BMBS MRCP, Alan Watkins BSc MBBS & David Brodie BEd MSc PhD
Methods An experimental study in which subjects were initially placed in age and sex matched groups and then randomised to treatment or control by alternate allocation. The study involved 30 healthy subjects (16 female and 14 male, aged 32·47 ± 1·55 years, mean ± standard error). A 5-minute cardiac interbeat interval recording, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and subjective self-evaluations of muscle tension and emotional state were taken before and after intervention. Autonomic function was measured using time and frequency domain analysis of heart rate variability.
Results Following myofascial trigger point massage therapy there was a significant decrease in heart rate (P < 0·01), systolic blood pressure (P=0·02) and diastolic blood pressure (P < 0·01). Analysis of heart rate variability revealed a significant increase in parasympathetic activity (P < 0·01) following myofascial trigger-point massage therapy. Additionally both muscle tension and emotional state, showed significant improvement (P < 0·01).
each issue we B a c k ground aim of the study was to will feature The investigate the effects of myofascial massage therapy to Conclusions abstracts trigger-point the head, neck and shoulder areas In normal healthy subjects on cardiac autonomic tone. myofascial trigger point massage from evidence No studies have reported on the therapy to the head, neck and shoulder areas is effective in of back massage on based research effect increasing cardiac autonomic tone as measured by parasympathetic activity and rate variability. This is publications heart improving measures of relaxation. especially relevant to the nursing as massage is and their profession, increasingly available as a therapy Publication Types: to conventional conclusions complementary nursing practice. PMID: 14644293 26
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productreview cd
book
product
Mysts of Avalon
No Hands Chair Massage
Luxury Massage Roller
Llewelyn
Gerry Pyves & David Woodhouse
New World Music NWCD556 £10.95
NHM Publicaitons £17.50
Omni Massage Systems £9.99
Llewellyn's new album after the success of Moonlore is based on the story of a young Druid woman who, via a fine myst of fog, crosses over into the ‘Otherworld’. This story was a classic novel by Marion Zimmer Bradley and conjures up a romantic and magical world. Celtic flutes and the voice of Juliana manage to achieve this.
Following the article last month on the Gerry Pyves roadshow, we felt it only right to review the excellent book he has written in collaboration with David Woodhouse.
Popular in the States this proven therapeutic tool is now available direct in the UK. The smoothness and weight of the ball enables it to be very directional, giving deep penetrating pressure and mobility. It can be used by the professional to enhance pressure without harming the practitioner, or by the client at home for extra relief.
The lyrical music takes the listener into a world of peace and serenity that makes it ideal for background to massage. With visualisation techniques, you might see and hear the ‘soft waves’ of the lake portrayed by the music. Keyboards are combined with a variety of instruments including pipes, whistles, guitars and flutes to create this, excuse the pun-mystical album.
It takes a step back from a conventional massage book by the use of the Lone Ranger and Tonto (for those younger readers this was a very famous Western TV series many moons ago!) as a means of getting the message across. The questions and answers on the technique translate into the dialogue between the two characters. These two pioneers travel through the badlands of massage injury and climb the technical heights of POD’s without detracting from the skilled content Personally, not a great fan of the true Western, I found this book informative, easy to follow and fun. All there is left to say is say is “Hi Ho Silver”
For more details or to order www.newworldmusic.com
For more details or to order visit www.nohandsmassage.com
It is very easy to clean between clients, with a spray and wipe dry or it can be soaked in warm soapy water and rinsed clean after heavy-duty use. The curvature of the edge enables you to keep a good firm grip, particularly useful when working on very specific points. You can even use two hands for more pressure. They come in a variety of lovely pearlescent jewel colours and are very reasonably priced. Each comes with a small 12-page information booklet attached.
For more details or to order visit www.omnimassage.uk.com May 2004 M|W
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Good Working Practice By P o l l y K e r r hether you practise from home or are based in a clinic, an awareness of health and safety guidelines and laws and the measures you need to take to fulfil these is essential, both for the welfare of your clients and for yourself. You must be familiar with regulations and ensure that your premises meet the necessary standards. These should not cost a great deal to implement and will certainly be cheaper than any potential legal bills which you may face later if you fail to do so and an accident occurs.
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It is your responsibility to ensure goodworking practice and a safe environment that, as far as possible, prevents accidents and stops any illhealth as a result of work. This involves identifying hazards, assessing risks and putting measures in place to avoid or control them. The measures you need to take may vary slightly depending on whether you work alone or are running a practice, and bear in mind that if you have any employees, they are your responsibility. On the other hand, if you yourself are 28
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employed by a practice, don’t automatically assume that an awareness of health and safety is not something you need to concern yourself with. It is vital that all practitioners know what is expected of them.
H e a l t h and S a f e t y Law By law, all practices are required to have a Health and Safety poster displayed and be able to produce a Health and Safety statement and a risk assessment. You will find the posters in good stationery suppliers or they can be obtained directly from the HSE. The statement need only be quite simple and should include points such as informing your employees of emergency procedures and ensuring that a record is kept of any accidents or injuries sustained at work. The risk assessment is not a complicated document either – take a look at your working environment and activities and identify any possible risks. Both the statement and the risk assessment just need to be printed out
with your name clearly visible and your letterhead at the top.
Fire The use of candles to create a relaxing atmosphere obviously presents the risk of fire – it is all too easy to forget that they are burning when you leave the room or knock one over. Rather than not using them, be sure that you take care to keep a close eye on them and extinguish them once the treatment is complete. If you practise from home or are selfemployed you do not need a Fire Certificate. However, if you employ a number of people you are likely to need one and can obtain information about applying for this from your local fire safety office. You are required to have fire-fighting equipment – a fire blanket or extinguisher – detectors and alarms. If these are not automatic, they should be easily accessible, simple to use and their whereabouts clearly indicated. Even if you don’t legally need to, you may find it helpful to produce a risk
businesstools good working practice assessment specific to fire safety, covering such factors as means of escape in case of fire and what provision is made for disabled people.
Confi n e d s p a c e s Therapists practising from home often do so in a spare bedroom or conversion where space may be limited. This can pose problems with access routes and having enough room to manoeuvre equipment. Accident prevention here relies a great deal on common sense – if the ceiling is low or there is a risk from cupboard doors opening in awkward directions make sure it is indicated. This can also be a very good exercise in being tidy - if you are strict with yourself and put things away when you’ve finished using them you maybe surprised at how much extra space appears!
Oil s a f e t y The risks involved with the use of essential oils are drummed into all therapists but not without good reason. They are hazardous substances that can be extremely harmful if used incorrectly and are also highly flammable so store them away from your candles. The usual points stand about oil safety: keep them away from children who may stray into your treatment room when you are not working; dilute and test them on a small area of skin before beginning a full treatment if you have not previously used the oil on the client – everyone is different and so their reaction to a particular oil will be too.
Clien t r e c o r d s Maintaining up to date client records is vital for keeping track of reactions and allergies. This of course brings up the issues of confidentiality and storage of information which all therapists should follow but for the prevention of adverse complications to treatment then records must be kept.
G e n e ral Be sure to have a first aid kit close to hand and make sure you check its contents regularly – it’s easy to forget what has been used and then find yourself in desperate need of a plaster and none in the box. Ensure that all your equipment is in good condition and not suffering from wear and tear. Old or unstable couches and stools can lead to accidents. Paying attention to hygiene is also important – infection and disease, however minor, can be spread easily if this is ignored. These are all things which can be covered in your risk assessment.
I n s u rance No matter how careful you are, accidents can still happen so you must ensure that you have professional indemnity insurance providing treatment and product liability and third party cover. This is widely available – most associations offer insurance to their members which includes cover against accidental bodily injury or illness, accidental damage to property, product liability on pre-packaged goods and also on any blends for clients that you prepare yourself, poisoning and also defence costs under the Health and Safety Act (1974). Much of the information here is common sense but if you need help or clarification then there are numerous sources to which you can turn. Health and Safety Executive www.hse.gov.uk Fire Safety Western Command www.london-fire.gov.uk Other websites which you may find useful are: Consumer Rights BBC Watchdog www.bbcwatchdog.co.uk or www.healthandsafety.co.uk
It is your responsibility to ensure good-working practice May 2004 M|W
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Ken Woodward End of an era
he name of Ken Woodward has been synonymous with the development of the massage profession in both the U.K. and Canada during the latter half of the last century and there are now practising massage therapists the world over who are indebted to this pioneer for their start and their livelihood in the profession.
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Ken’s interest in and association with physical culture and massage has been with him since childhood. His father, a former world champion wrestler, ran a gymnasium in his native Yorkshire, England. Ken’s familiarity with the role played by exercise and massage in attaining bodily fitness stems from that early age. Whilst pursuing an early career in journalism and advertising, he undertook the training programme of the Northern Institute of Massage, a U.K, tutorial establishment founded in 1924. Sometime after qualifying, the opportunity arose for Ken to succeed the founder, Harry Prince, on his retirement as Principal of the college. In 1955, Ken took over as Principle of the Northern Institute; at the same time succeeding Mr Prince also as Organising Secretary of the LCSP-the London & Counties Society of 30
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Physiologists. The LCSP was Britain’s oldest independent professional body representing massage therapists and chiropodists in private practice, having been established in 1919. Assisted by his wife Audrey, an expert beauty therapist, Ken divided his time between management and teaching duties at the college and work in their busy therapy clinic and fitness centre at Blackpool, England, - finding time also to contribute with the publication of speciality athletic and health and fitness magazines for a while. Under his direction, both the college and the society achieved the highly creditable status and reputation they now possess. During his years as Principal, thousands of students have been training in massage and allied therapies through NIM, and graduates of the college can be found in almost every English-speaking country in the world today. It is some years now since the NIM was invited by Calgary City Council to assist in the provision of an approved training programme for massage therapists practicing in the city. Facilities for tuition and acquisition of NIM qualifications were set up in Calgary, Edmonton and other centres in Alberta, followed in time by similar facilities in Saskatchewan and the
establishment of the A&D School at Regina, the forerunner of the Western College of Physical Therapies in Regina and its sister school, the Wellington College of Physical Therapies at Winnipeg, Manitoba. There is no doubt that the high repute, expertise and influence of the NIM under the guidance of Ken Woodward has been a major factor in the development of the massage therapy profession in Canada and he has visited the country on several occasions as a welcome guest-speaker at college and professional events. After forty years in office, Ken retired as Principal of the Northern Institute at the end of 1994, handing over the reins to Eddie Caldwell, only its third Principle in over 70 years. Over the recent years with failing health Ken took more of a back seat within the Society, however he was always ready and eager to make available his expertise and knowledge to Council and individuals alike. An era in massage history in this country ended on the 16th April when ‘Woody’ fell asleep. A great man whose passing will be felt by, family, friends, colleagues and associations alike.
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