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Available courses

Course Title:

Comprehensive Pain Management for Massage Therapists (16 CE Hours)


Course Description

This in-depth continuing education course provides Licensed Massage Therapists with a comprehensive framework for assessing and managing pain using massage therapy and integrative approaches. Combining the latest pain science, clinical reasoning, hands-on techniques, and real-world case studies, this 16-hour training equips therapists with the tools to safely and effectively support clients experiencing acute and chronic pain.


Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  1. Explain the physiology and psychology of pain, including central sensitization and chronic pain syndromes.

  2. Assess clients using at least five pain assessment tools and integrate findings into treatment planning.

  3. Demonstrate proficiency in at least six manual therapy techniques for pain reduction.

  4. Apply integrative adjuncts (stretching, cupping, guasha, thermotherapy, stress-reduction techniques).

  5. Create ethical, client-centered treatment plans for pain management.

  6. Accurately document pain-related sessions using SOAP notes.

  7. Analyze and solve complex pain management case studies.

Anatomy and Physiology – This course provides a comprehensive study of the structure and function of the human body. Students learn about the major body systems, tissues, and organs, with an emphasis on how they interrelate to maintain health. The course builds a foundation for understanding the body’s responses to massage and supports the development of safe, effective treatment strategies.

Kinesiology – This course explores the science of human movement, including muscle function, joint mechanics, and body alignment. Students learn to identify muscles, their actions, and the biomechanics underlying posture and movement patterns. Emphasis is placed on applying kinesiology principles to enhance assessment skills, improve massage techniques, and support client wellness.

Pathology – This course introduces the study of disease processes and their effects on the human body, with a focus on conditions relevant to massage therapy practice. Students learn to recognize signs and symptoms, understand contraindications, and adapt techniques for clients with specific health concerns. Emphasis is placed on integrating pathology knowledge with safe, effective, and ethical treatment planning.

MT2002 – Trigger Point Therapy (6 Hours) introduces students to the theory and practice of identifying and treating myofascial trigger pointsβ€”hyperirritable spots within taut bands of skeletal muscle fibers that can cause local and referred pain, restricted movement, and dysfunction. This focused course provides both the scientific background and hands-on techniques necessary for massage therapy students to integrate trigger point therapy into clinical practice.


🎯 Learning Objectives

By the end of this 6-hour course, students will be able to:

  • Define trigger points and describe their role in pain patterns and musculoskeletal dysfunction.

  • Locate common trigger point referral patterns for major muscle groups.

  • Apply safe, effective techniques for releasing trigger points, including ischemic compression and stretching.

  • Integrate trigger point therapy with Swedish and deep tissue massage to support client treatment goals.

  • Recognize contraindications and precautions to ensure safe practice.


πŸ“– Course Structure (6 Hours)

  • Lecture / Theory: 2 hours

    • Introduction to myofascial pain syndrome

    • Trigger point physiology and referral patterns

  • Hands-On Demonstration & Practice: 3 hours

    • Palpation of common trigger points

    • Ischemic compression and release techniques

  • Integration & Assessment: 1 hour

    • Case study practice and practical skills evaluation


πŸ“š Recommended Textbooks & References

  • Clair Davies – The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook

  • Janet Travell & David Simons – Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual (classic reference)

  • Sandy Fritz – Mosby’s Fundamentals of Therapeutic Massage (supportive overview for massage students)

MT2003 – Myofascial & Fascia Blasting (6 Hours) introduces students to the principles and practices of working with the body’s fascial system. Fascia, the connective tissue network that surrounds and supports muscles and organs, plays a vital role in posture, movement, and chronic pain patterns. This course provides foundational knowledge of fascia’s anatomy and function, and it trains students in hands-on myofascial release techniques as well as the use of specialized tools (fascia blasting) to improve circulation, mobility, and tissue health.


🎯 Learning Objectives

By the end of this 6-hour course, students will be able to:

  • Explain the structure and function of fascia in relation to massage therapy.

  • Identify common fascial restrictions and patterns of dysfunction.

  • Apply basic myofascial release techniques using hands, forearms, and safe pressure.

  • Demonstrate proper use of fascia blasting tools for therapeutic and aesthetic applications.

  • Integrate myofascial and fascia blasting methods into Swedish, deep tissue, and trigger point sessions.

  • Recognize contraindications and safety considerations for fascial work.


πŸ“– Course Structure (6 Hours)

  • Lecture / Theory: 2 hours

    • Anatomy and physiology of fascia

    • Role of fascia in posture, pain, and mobility

  • Hands-On Demonstration & Practice: 3 hours

    • Myofascial release methods (direct & indirect techniques)

    • Fascia blasting with tools: techniques, pressure, and flow

  • Integration & Assessment: 1 hour

    • Case study applications

    • Practical skill evaluation


πŸ“š Recommended Textbooks & References

  • Thomas Myers – Anatomy Trains: Myofascial Meridians for Manual Therapists

  • Art Riggs – Deep Tissue Massage: A Visual Guide to Techniques

  • Ashley Black – The Cellulite Myth: It’s Not Fat, It’s Fascia (fascia blasting reference)

MT2004 – Sports Massage (6 Hours) provides students with the knowledge and techniques necessary to work with athletes and active clients. Sports massage focuses on enhancing performance, preventing injury, and supporting recovery through targeted massage applications. This short course introduces both pre-event and post-event massage protocols, as well as maintenance and rehabilitative approaches, equipping students to integrate sports massage techniques into their professional practice.


🎯 Learning Objectives

By the end of this 6-hour course, students will be able to:

  • Define the role of sports massage in athletic training and recovery.

  • Differentiate between pre-event, inter-event, and post-event massage applications.

  • Apply specific sports massage techniques, including compression, broadening, stripping, stretching, and cross-fiber friction.

  • Identify and adapt techniques for different athletic populations and conditions.

  • Recognize contraindications and safety considerations unique to athletes.

  • Document sports massage sessions using appropriate professional standards.


πŸ“– Course Structure (6 Hours)

  • Lecture / Theory: 2 hours

    • History and principles of sports massage

    • Phases of athletic performance and massage applications

  • Hands-On Demonstration & Practice: 3 hours

    • Pre-event techniques (stimulating, energizing, quick)

    • Post-event and recovery techniques (relaxing, flushing, restorative)

    • Maintenance massage (deep tissue, stretching, corrective work)

  • Integration & Assessment: 1 hour

    • Case scenarios and practice with athletic partners

    • Skills evaluation and feedback


πŸ“š Recommended Textbooks & References

  • Sandy Fritz – Mosby’s Fundamentals of Therapeutic Massage

  • Michael McGillicuddy – Facilitated Stretching

  • Halvorson & Benjamin – Sport Massage (classic text from the American Massage Therapy Association)

Introduction

MT2005 – Abdominal Massage (6 Hours) introduces students to specialized techniques for working with the abdominal region to promote relaxation, improve digestion, release muscular tension, and support overall wellness. Abdominal massage is an often-overlooked aspect of bodywork, yet it plays a vital role in addressing stress, posture, and visceral health. This focused course combines theoretical knowledge of abdominal anatomy with safe, practical hands-on applications.


🎯 Learning Objectives

By the end of this 6-hour course, students will be able to:

  • Describe the anatomy and physiology of the abdominal region, including muscles and visceral structures.

  • Explain the physiological and therapeutic benefits of abdominal massage (circulation, digestion, stress reduction).

  • Apply safe abdominal massage techniques, including effleurage, kneading, circular friction, and gentle visceral release.

  • Integrate abdominal massage into full-body sessions for relaxation, detoxification, and therapeutic outcomes.

  • Recognize contraindications and safety precautions related to abdominal and visceral work.


πŸ“– Course Structure (6 Hours)

  • Lecture / Theory: 2 hours

    • Anatomy & physiology of abdominal region

    • Benefits, indications, and contraindications

  • Hands-On Demonstration & Practice: 3 hours

    • Surface techniques (effleurage, kneading, vibration)

    • Deeper applications (gentle visceral release, diaphragmatic work)

  • Integration & Assessment: 1 hour

    • Case applications and supervised practice

    • Skills review and feedback


πŸ“š Recommended Textbooks & References

  • Jean-Pierre Barral – Visceral Manipulation

  • Sandy Fritz – Mosby’s Fundamentals of Therapeutic Massage (general massage reference)

  • Leon Chaitow – Foundations of Manual Therapy: Visceral Approaches

MT2006 – Craniosacral & TMJ Therapy (6 Hours) introduces students to gentle, specialized manual therapy techniques for the craniosacral system and temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Craniosacral therapy focuses on subtle mobilization of the cranial bones, spine, and sacrum to support nervous system balance and whole-body relaxation. TMJ therapy addresses muscular and joint dysfunction in the jaw, commonly associated with stress, grinding, headaches, and facial pain. This course blends theory with hands-on practice to give massage therapy students practical tools to integrate into their professional sessions.


🎯 Learning Objectives

By the end of this 6-hour course, students will be able to:

  • Describe the anatomy and physiology of the craniosacral system and temporomandibular joint.

  • Explain the therapeutic effects and indications of craniosacral therapy and TMJ massage.

  • Demonstrate gentle palpation and mobilization techniques for craniosacral release.

  • Apply safe intraoral and extraoral techniques for TMJ dysfunction relief.

  • Identify contraindications and precautions when working with craniosacral or TMJ issues.

  • Integrate craniosacral and TMJ therapy into general massage or treatment planning.


πŸ“– Course Structure (6 Hours)

  • Lecture / Theory: 2 hours

    • Craniosacral anatomy and physiology

    • TMJ anatomy, dysfunction, and pain referral patterns

  • Hands-On Demonstration & Practice: 3 hours

    • Craniosacral holds and gentle mobilization techniques

    • TMJ massage: external and (optional supervised) intraoral methods

  • Integration & Assessment: 1 hour

    • Practice in paired sessions with client scenarios

    • Skills review and feedback


πŸ“š Recommended Textbooks & References

  • John E. Upledger – Craniosacral Therapy

  • Leon Chaitow – Cranial Manipulation Theory and Practice

  • Antonio Stecco – Fascial Manipulation for Musculoskeletal Pain (reference for fascia connections)

MT2007 – Lymphatic Drainage Aesthetic (12 Hours)

Course Length: 12 Hours (can be taught over 2 full days or 4 half-day sessions)
Format: Lecture, Demonstration, Hands-On Practice, Clinical Integration


πŸ“˜ Introduction

MT2007 – Lymphatic Drainage Aesthetic (12 Hours) introduces students to the theory and practice of lymphatic drainage massage, a gentle manual technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system, reduce swelling, promote detoxification, and improve skin appearance. This course emphasizes aesthetic applications of lymphatic drainage, including facial sculpting, post-surgical recovery support, and body contouring. Students will learn anatomy, physiology, contraindications, and hands-on protocols to safely integrate lymphatic drainage into their massage and spa practices.


🎯 Learning Objectives

By the end of this 12-hour course, students will be able to:

  • Explain the anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system.

  • Describe the therapeutic and aesthetic benefits of lymphatic drainage.

  • Identify contraindications and safety concerns (e.g., infections, cancer, edema of unknown origin).

  • Demonstrate gentle lymphatic drainage techniques for face, neck, and body.

  • Apply aesthetic protocols for beauty, detox, and post-surgical support.

  • Integrate lymphatic drainage methods with massage and spa services.

MT2008 – Headache & Migraine Relief (6 Hours)

Course Length: 6 Hours (1-Day Intensive)
Format: Lecture, Demonstration, Hands-On Practice, Clinical Integration


πŸ“˜ Introduction

MT2008 – Headache & Migraine Relief (6 Hours) introduces students to therapeutic massage approaches for reducing the frequency, intensity, and discomfort of tension headaches and migraines. The course covers the anatomy and physiology of headache mechanisms, common musculoskeletal triggers, and safe hands-on techniques. Students will learn to apply gentle but effective methods including trigger point therapy, myofascial release, craniosacral holds, and relaxation strategies that can be integrated into clinical or spa practice.


🎯 Learning Objectives

By the end of this 6-hour course, students will be able to:

  • Differentiate between tension headaches, migraines, and cervicogenic headaches.

  • Identify muscular, postural, and lifestyle factors that contribute to headaches.

  • Apply massage techniques for headache relief, including neck/shoulder release, scalp massage, and cranial holds.

  • Use safe adaptations and recognize contraindications (e.g., vascular conditions, recent trauma, neurological red flags).

  • Develop short treatment protocols for clients presenting with recurring headaches or migraines

DAYTIME CLASS BY BETH

DAYTIME CLASS BY BETH

MT2001 – Swedish & Deep Tissue Massage (50 Hours) provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the two most widely practiced forms of therapeutic massage. The course begins with Swedish massage, emphasizing relaxation, circulation, and overall well-being through the use of classic strokes such as effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, vibration, and friction. Students then advance into deep tissue applications, learning techniques to address chronic muscular tension, postural imbalances, and restricted mobility through slow, focused, and layer-specific work.


🎯 Learning Objectives

By the end of this 50-hour course, students will be able to:

  • Perform a full-body Swedish massage session with professional flow, rhythm, and client-centered adaptations.

  • Apply deep tissue techniques safely and effectively, with awareness of therapist body mechanics and client tolerance.

  • Identify indications and contraindications for Swedish and deep tissue massage.

  • Document client sessions accurately, using proper intake and SOAP note procedures.

  • Integrate Swedish relaxation techniques with therapeutic deep tissue methods for holistic client care.


πŸ“– Course Structure (50 Hours)

  • Lecture & Demonstration: 15 hours

  • Supervised Hands-On Practice: 25 hours

  • Independent Study / Skill Development: 5 hours

  • Assessment & Final Practical Exam: 5 hours


πŸ“š Recommended Textbooks

  • Sandy Fritz – Mosby’s Fundamentals of Therapeutic Massage

  • Art Riggs – Deep Tissue Massage: A Visual Guide to Techniques

  • Andrew Biel – Trail Guide to the Body (for anatomy and palpation reference)

MBLEX Training Class==MB0003

MBLEX Training Class==MB0002