MASS 1303 - Massage for Special Populations

Credit hours: 3

Course Description:
Students will learn contraindications, precautions, special positioning & techniques appropriate for various special populations that have special needs, conditions, and/or situations. An array of populations may be explored that may include, but not be limited to pregnant women, the elderly, athletes, cancer patients, AIDS patients, persons with mobility challenges that may require seated/chair massage. Students will explore ways of adapting and adjusting their massage techniques, pressure usage, timing, and pace to meet the unique needs of various special populations.

Student Learning Outcomes:
Students will be able to:

Describe the structure and function of the human body, its systems (except the muscular system) in health and disease as it relates to the applications of massage therapy and bodywork.
Discuss the physiological effects of touch, massage and bodywork techniques.
Demonstrate the ability describe and to identify indications, contraindications, cautions and modifications for massage protocols related to common pathologies encountered in the practice of massage therapy and bodywork.
Demonstrate the ability to recognize and look up indications, contraindications, cautions and modifications for massage protocols related to medications commonly encountered with massage therapy clientele.