Hands-Free Chair Massage

Hands-free chair massage can prevent thumb injuries. If massage therapists overuse their thumbs or if their thumbs are not properly aligned with their arm bones while using them, thumb injuries will result.

Thumb injuries are a leading cause of massage therapists quitting their profession. This sometimes happens after just a few years of giving massage. This happened to my husband's cousin while she was still in her 20's.

Instead of quitting, some massage therapists discover new ways to give massage without using their thumbs or fingers. Experiment and find out what works best for you if you would like to try alternate massage techniques.

Therapists can use their fists, forearms, and elbows, along with the heels of their hands. The key is to use proper body mechanics. This allows you to use your body weight to sink deep down into your client's soft tissues.

Stand properly, using proper body mechanics for chair massage. Stand directly behind the client, placing one leg behind the client's spine. Your other leg should go forward, aligned with the leg pad. Make sure you have room to bend your knees. As you perform massage, your weight will shift from foot to foot and your knees will bend forward.

It is possible to give a chair massage without using your thumbs and fingers. It will be different than what you are used to, but it can be done.

For instance, lean into your client's back with your forearm. Lift up your back heel and the weight of your body causes your forearm to sink deeper into your client's soft tissue.

Use your knuckles for effleurage. Move them slowly down the back. Use your elbow to release trigger points. Lift your back heel to allow deeper tissue treatment.

Don't give up your career without trying if you have injured your thumbs. Practice different techniques for a hands-free chair massage using family members or friends who will honestly tell you how those techniques feel. Keep practicing until you have a good routine to use on your paying clients.