Hi all, I have been qualified for nearly one year but have only been asked to perform a pregnancy massage for the first time today. Could anyone give me some pointers as it was not covered in the VTCT Swedish Massage. Thank you so much.
This forum is such a help to me thanks everyone.
🙂
RE: Pregnancy Massage
Hi Pippiejo,
I often massage pregnant ladies, it is great for them!
First of all, they cannot lay flat on their backs. You will need to either lift the end of your table if it is adjustable, or place lots of pillows under their backs so they are propped up.
I tend to massage them laying on their side, so I do a complete one side, then get them to turn onto the other side, and do that side, then get them to sit up on the edge of the table - at this point I get them a glass of water to sip, whilst I massage their upper back, shoulders and neck.
The most important thing is for them to feel comfortable throughout the massage, so lots of pillows and bolsters to support their back, bumps, under and between legs - in fact wherever they need them. I also stress the importance of them telling me if they need to move, or re-adjust at any time.
Most pregnant women love to have their feet and legs massage, as they often start to feel very heavy and tired as the pregnancy progresses, so I do spend a bit more time than normal on this.
Good luck, remember to ask lots of questions beforehand , you will probably need to adjust your client record card accordingly.
Karen x
RE: Pregnancy Massage
Thank you so much. Just one final question, do you massage the bump?
I think this could be quite invasive or do you just ask if they would like you to?
Many thanks
RE: Pregnancy Massage
Hi Pippiejo
Welcome to HP
Do pop into the massage section this has been covered there.....also check with your insurance as if you didnt cover it on your course you may not be covered. In that case you would need to refer to someone who has done a pregnancy massage course.
Tiger
x
RE: Pregnancy Massage
yes, massage of the belly should be included (unless your client strongly objects to it - for whatever reasons).
Many expecting mothers (especially at the later stages of pregnancy) complain about the skin tightness (usually around the lower abdomen) - stretching the skin/fascias, sometimes just by holding and following them in the direction of least resistance will release tissue and ease discomfort.
Myself I always try to start the treatment with the pregnant client face up - on a matrace softer than those on massage couches - to do hip joint mobilisation/stretches and TMJ, occiput and sacrum releases and as soon as they become uncomfortable move them around.
RE: Pregnancy Massage
hi & welcome
Blessings,
Shawn