Pfrimmer Deep Muscle Therapy– Developed by Therese Pfrimmer of Canada in 1940’s as a result of her battle with paralysis.
Pfrimmer therapy is detailed cross fiber friction that stimulates circulation and regenerates the lymphatic flow. The work enables free flow of lymph and blood as well as improving joint movement and removal of waste products/toxins from muscle tissue. Training is a 2 week course.
Web resources:
Pfrimmer method
Pilates- Pilates is a method of movement and execise developed by Joseph Pilates. The exercises focus on development of the core muscles and work to lengthen the muscles while strengthening them. Pilates is also sometimes called “The Method” as there is some controversy over the rights to the work.
Book resources:
The Complete Guide to Joseph H Pilates Techniques of Physical Conditioning by Allan Menezes
The Pilates Body by Brook Siler
Web resources:
Polarity- Developed by Austrian born Randolph Stone in the 1920’s. Stone was trained in chiropractic, osteopathic medicine, naturopathic medicine and Ayurvedic methods. he also studied Yoga extensively. Polarity theory is based on the principle that every cell has both negative and positive poles and the body is gently manipulated through touch or holding of tissue. The top and right side of the body have positive charges and the feet and left side have a negative charge. The practitioner places their right hand on the negative charged parts of the client and the left hand on positively charged parts. Integrates bodywork, diet, simple exercises (polarity yoga) and self- awareness. Emphasizes the connection of the body, mind, emotions and spiritual connections. The intention is to balance the energy in the body, toward the ultimate goal of uniting body, mind, emotions and spirit. Training is a 430 hour program.
Book resources:
Polarity Therapy by Randolph Stone
Web resources:
Polarity Realization Institute–
American Polarity Association- Randolph Stone’s work
The Hidden Patient Polarity Therapy for Dementia Caregivers By Shirley Vanderbilt :Massage and Bodywork Magazine
Postural Integration- Jack Painters work developed from his training in Rolfing. Focus on the unity of tissue, feeling and awareness using breathwork, deep fascia manipulation, emotional expression and meditation. Training consists of a 3 year program: the first 2 years are supervised instruction, the 3 year is supervised internship.
Book resources:
Deep bodywork by Jack Painter (out of print but check www.bookfinder.com or www.half.com)
Web resources:
International Center for Release and Integration
Pregnancy Massage– Massage therapy techniques geared toward the expectant mother. There are many health concerns and complications to take into consideration when working with a pregnant woman. Most techniques are done in the side-lying position as they are unable to lay prone. In most cases massage can be done right up to and including delivery.
Web resources:
Carol Osborne Sheets www.bodytherapyassociates.com
The Evolution of an MT From Office to Birthing Room By Caitlin Philips : Massage and Bodywork Magazine
See the Pregnancy Massage Section
Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation– Developed by Dorothy Voss. Use of controlled movements to stretch, lengthen and re-organize the muscle. based on Sherrington’s Principle of reciprocal innervation: when the agonist is firing and the affected joint moves, the antagonist group will be inhibited.