Branches of Bodywork

Bodywork is a diverse class of Complementary and Alternative Medicine modalities that use the body as a means of delievering therapy; however, it is commonly used to identify massage and massage related modalities. Within the massage industry, bodywork refers to the massage-like modalities that do not fall within a more specific and often times legal definition of massage. Confused yet? I know I was, so I set out to sort out this long list of modalities. This is not a complete list, and the number of modalities keeps growing. I am sure there will be individuals who would have classified one or all of them differntly, but this is my take on the issue. At the end of this exercise, I learned that while it is helpful to know that their is an extended menu of techniques and theories behind bodywork, the most important thing is to provide clients the results they want and ask for with whatever skillsets you have. In the context of this article, I use the more common definition of Bodywork -- massage and massage related modalities. Special Populations Special Populations refer to specialties that use one or more techniques or types of massage / bodywork to meet the particular needs of a specific population. These Special Populations modalities have respective certification programs and associations.

• Medical massage uses various techniques to augment medical treatment. Medical massage therapists have greater training in anatomy, physiology, pathology, and medical treatments. Association memberships and certifications are available.
• Cancer / Oncology massage uses various techniques to meet the needs of clients who have been diagnosed with cancer.
• Sports massage uses various techniques to meet the needs of amateur and professional athletes. The definition of athlete is often extended to include individuals who through repetitive movement or static contraction over use muscle groups during work or everyday activity. Sports massage techniques are beneficial before, after, or during athletic events.
• Geriatric massage uses various techniques to meet the needs of the elderly.
• Pregnancy massage uses various techniques to meet the special needs of women during pregnancy.
• Post-natal massage uses various techniques to meet the needs of women after giving birth.
• Infant massage uses various techniques to meet the special needs of infants. Infant massage classes teach mothers and care givers how to effectively and safely massage their infant.
• Equine massage uses various techniques to meet the special needs of horses.
• On-site / Chair / Seated massage techniques on clients who are in space where the use of a specially built chair is more conducive to receiving a massage than on a table or the floor. The Palmer Method is a popular approach to Chair massage and uses Shiatsu acupressure to effectively work the body while the client remains clothed.
• Trauma Touch Therapy uses communication, mind-body, and hands-on techniques to gently reconnect the mind, body, and spirit of individuals who have been exposed to trauma or abuse.

Body Specific modalities Body Specific modalities focus on a specific body organ or system of organs. These Body Specific modalities have respective certification programs and associations.

• Visceral Manipulation (VM) uses hands-on techniques to promote the health and function of visceral organs, organs that lye below the diaphragm.
• Lymphatic Drainage Therapy uses hands-on techniques to increase the circulation of lymph fluid. It helps cleans the body and improve the immune system.
• Lymph System Massage uses hands-on techniques that improve the flow of lymph fluid helping to clean the body. It was developed by a Danish physician, Hans Vodder, in the 1930s.
• Cranio-Sacral Therapy uses gentle, hands-on techniques to promote optimal cerebro- and spinal- fluid flow which has a positive impact on the health of the central nervous system. It was originally developed in the early 1900’s by an osteopath, Dr. William Sutherland, but was refined and popularized by Dr. John Upledgar in the late 1900s.

Greco-Roman Lineage or "Western" Modalities Greco-Roman bodywork modalities have evolved primarly from Greco-Roman healthcare systems. The Greek philosopher Hippocrates, the father of western medicine, developed and wrote about massage techniques. Greco-Roman culture used massage and hydro-therapies to improve health and hygiene. These treatments were administered in centers that resemble modern day spas.

• Swedish uses rhythmic, hands-on techniques to increase circulation, relaxation, and well-being. It is the most well known and used form of massage / bodywork. Its techniques originate from Greco-Roman healthcare practices. It was formalized by a Swedish physician, Per Henrik Ling.
• Esalen uses long, flowing hands-on techniques to promote circulation, relaxation, and wellbeing. It was developed at the Eslan Institute in Big Sur, California.
• Dry Brush techniques are used to stimulate circulation, the nervous system, and vitality.
• Hydro-therapy uses the properties of water to promote health and wellbeing. Cold, hot, and temperate water treatments are used.
• Heated Stone therapy uses the heat conduction properties of stones to relax the body and increase circulation.

Aquatic Aquatic modalities are forms of bodywork that are practiced in the water. This overlaps with the Hydro-therapy technics fore mentioned. The distinction I am making is modalities using water vs. those done in the water.

• Watsu uses hands-on techniques similar to those used in Shiatsu as the client floats in warm water. It was developed by Harold Dull in the 1980’s.
• Water Dance

Topical Treatements Topical Treatments use biologically based therapies such as herbs and essential oils along with massage techniques. This augmentation can be found in many massage and bodywork lineages.

• Herbal wraps use herb treatments that are applied to the skin through various means. The body is wrapped to maximize the delivery system.
• Essential oil wraps use essential oil treatments that are applied to the skin through various means. The body is wrapped to maximize the delivery system.
• Aromatherapy uses biologically based essential oils to augment various massage techniques. Its molecules are absorbed through the skin and when inhaled effects the limbic portion of the brain.
• Rain drop therapy uses custom blended essential oils which are dropped on the client to treat various ailments.

Deep Tissue Deep Tissue massage and bodywork techniques or modalities that target the deep layers of tissue, muscles, and organs. Deep pressure does not equate great pain. The speed of movement, the skill level of the therapist, and the client’s mental and physical state are all factors in the degree of comfort that may be experienced. Good communication between a therapist and client are essential to alleviate any concerns around pain. While form and function modalities, like those that steam from Ida Rolfs work, use deep tissue techniques they are listed separtely because they are unique in their approach and how they are experienced.

• Deep / Deep Tissue / Deep Muscle massage uses hands-on techniques to impact deep muscle fibers in order to release spasms and adhesions and improve functional movement.
• Canadian Deep Muscle Massage uses hands-on, cross fiber friction techniques to free adhesions, improve circulation, and promote muscle health and function.
• Cross Fiber Massage uses hands-on, cross fiber friction techniques to free adhesions, improve circulation, and promote muscle health and function.
• Russian Massage uses hands-on techniques that are often compared to Sports Massage. It was developed in Russia and was one of the many reasons that Russian athletes at one time dominated Olympic events.
• Pfrimmer Deep Muscle uses hands-on, cross fiber friction techniques to free adhesions, improve circulation, and promote muscle health and function. It was developed by Therese Pfrimmer in the 1940s.
• Myofascial Release uses hands-on techniques that release adhesions and the binding of a ubiquitous connective tissue in the body called fascia. It was developed by John Barns in the late 1960’s.
• Trigger Point Therapy uses hands-on techniques to relieve referred and localized pain caused by muscle knots / spasms. It was developed in the 1940s by a pioneer in the study of pain who was also the White House physician during the Kennedy and Johnson administrations, Dr. Janet Travell. Dr. David Simons is also recognized for his expertise in myofascial pain and contributions to Trigger Point Therapy.
• Myotherapy uses hands-on techniques to relax knotted muscles / spasms that can cause local and referred pain. It was developed by Bonnie Prudden in 1976.
• Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) uses hands-on techniques including trigger point pressure in order to alleviate and prevent pain by balancing the neuro-musculoskeletal relationship. This balance improves the function of muscles, joints, and movement.
• Naprapathy uses hands-on techniques along with movement therapy, dietary changes, and lifestyle modification to focus on the health of spinal ligaments, energy flow, and the body as a whole. It was developed by a Chicago chiropractor in 1907.
• Bowen uses hands-on techniques interspersed with resting periods that allow the body to absorb and adjust to the therapy. It was developed in by an Australian, Tom Bowen in the 1950s.

Form and Function Form and Function massage and bodywork modalities evaluate clients’ structural balance and movement and then use hands-on, self-awareness, movement education, or exercise techniques to balance form and improve function. The deep tissue techniques can be intense and they have a reputation for being painful. The experiece depends highly on the skill level of the therapist, the clients perception of pain, and the state of the client's body. These Structural Massage and bodywork modalities utilize detailed structural evaluations and a series of therapy sessions, often 10. These sessions are designed to bring the body back into alignment. Dr. Ida Rolf had the greatest impact on this form of bodywork.

• Structural Bodywork uses structural evaluations and a series of hands-on techniques to bring the body back into alignment and balance.
• Rolfing uses structural evaluations and hands-on techniques to bring the body back into alignment. This is done through a series of appointments. It was developed by a biochemist, Dr. Ida Rolf, in the 1930s. Dr. Rolf was a pioneer in the bodywork therapy.
• Hellerwork uses structural evaluation, hands-on, and movement education techniques to bring the body back into balance. It is based on Rolfing but focuses more on communication and education between the client and the therapist as well as self-growth. It was developed by Joseph Heller.
• Structural Integration – see Rolfing
• Soma Neuromuscular Integration is a refinement of Rolfing which uses less intrusive, hands-on techniques and incorporates movement and mind-body techniques. It was developed by Bill Williams, Ph.D. in 1978

Movement Re-education Movement Re-education techniques and modalities bring greater awareness to the body and its movements. They often include hands-on, movement education, and exercise techniques.

• Aston Patterning uses movement education along with hands-on and mind-body techniques to facilitate body rehabilitation and performance. It was developed by a dancer and student of Ida Rolf, Judith Aston, in the 1970s.
• Alexander
• Feldenkrais Method uses movement and mind-body techniques to promote functional movement and self-awareness.
• Rubenfeld
• Trager uses movement education exercises along with hands-on and mind-body techniques to promote a light and effortless state of being. It was developed by Dr. Milton Trager.

Mind-Body Bodywork methods These bodywork modalities overlap with the mind-body class of Complementary and Alternative Medicine. They focus on mind-body techniques in combination with hands-on therapy. Mind-body techniques include awareness, meditation, visualization, etc.

• Muscle Release Technique (MRT) uses body and movement awareness and education along with hands-on techniques to prevent or re-habilitate pain and injury.
• Hakomi uses mind-body, hands-on, energy, and movement techniques to connect the mind and body. It was developed by Ron Kurtz in the 1970s. It is taken from Native American Indians.
• Rosen Method uses mind-body techniques along with talk therapy and hands-on techniques to bring greater self-awareness and emotional releases to promote physical wellness and personal growth.
• Rubenfeld Synergy Method uses mind-body techniques along with movement, talk therapy, and hands-on techniques to promote bodymind wellness. It was developed by Ilana Rubenfeld, an orchestra conductor, in the 1960s. She borrowed from several psycho-, movement, and bodywork therapy modalities to create a treatment for her own back pain.
• Reichian
• Postural Integration uses hands-on, movement, and breathing exercise techniques in a series of sessions to release mind-body tension. It was developed by Dr. Jack Painter.
• Integrative Massage uses long, fluid hands-on techniques along with breath work exercises to simulate energy flow and release emotional tension. It was developed at Boulder College of Massage Therapy in the 1970s.
• Haelan therapy uses mind-body, energy, breath exercises, psychotherapy, and talk therapy techniques to help people in pain integrate their mind, body, and spirit. It was developed by a therapeutic touch practionar and registered nurse, Janet F. Quinn, Ph.D.
• Core Energetics uses mind-body and hands-on techniques to increase a connection to one’s core energy and emotions. It steams from bioenergetics but has a greater spiritual emphasis. It was developed by Dr. John Pierralcos in 1971.
• Bioenergetics uses mind-body and hands-on techniques to promote bodymind health and energy flow. It focuses on correcting muscular and postural patterns. It was developed by Wilheim Reich and refined by Alexander Lowen.

Alternative Medicine bodywork Alternative Medicine bodywork modalities are those hands-on therapies that are primarily used in Alternative Medicine healthcare systems or have steamed from those systems.

• Traditional Chinese Medicine modalities are based in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) philosophy which date back to 3rd century B.C.: Yin and Yang, 5 Element Theory, etc. Techniques such as hands-on pressure and stretching are used to balance (Chi) universal life force energy.
• Amma Therapy uses hands-on techniques to balance the flow of (Chi) energy flow and manipulate soft tissue in order to promote health and well-being. It is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been popularized by Korean-born Tina Sohn.
• Acupressure uses hands-on techniques to apply pressure to specific points on the body. These points are mapped along the body in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Pressing on these points stimulate (Chi) energy flow and promotes health and well-being. It dates back to 3rd Century B.C.
• Shiatsu uses hands-on techniques to apply pressure to specific points on the body. These points are mapped along the body in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Pressing these points stimulate (Chi) energy flow and promotes health and well-being. It dates back to 3rd Century B.C. Several forms of Shiatsu have developed over time.
• Jin Shin Jitsu uses light, prolonged pressure on 26 Shiatsu pressure points to balance the flow of energy and promote wellness. It was developed in Japan by Jiro Mural.
• Reflexology uses hands-on techniques to apply pressure to specific points on the hands and feet in order to promote energy flow, health, and well-being.
• Lomi-lomi uses hand-on techniques similar to Shiatsu but that are shorter and gentler. It is used to balance energy and promote body / spirit connection and wellness. It is an ancient Hawaiian modality that is very spiritual in nature. Translated in Hawaiian it means “rub rub”. It was formalized by a Hawaiian-born nurse, Margaret Machado.
• Chi Nei Tsang uses hands-on techniques on the abdomen to promote the health and energy flow of internal organs. It was developed by Chinese Taoist monks.
• Thai massage uses hands-on and stretching techniques to stimulate the flow of (Chi) energy. Its techniques seem to borrow from Shiatsu and yoga.
• Tuina Medical Massage is a medical system that uses hands-on techniques to diagnose and balance energy. It originates from China and requires years of study.
• Ayurvedic Medicine modalities are based in the ancient Indian healthcare system, Ayervedic Medicine.
• Panchakarma is a hands-on technique performed by two therapists and uses ayurvedic oil. It promotes the removal of vata, pitta, and kapha energies which are described in Ayurvedic philosophy.

Hybrids Hybrids are massage / bodywork modalities that have been developed since 1970 and borrow from multiple medical models to provide synergistic bodywork techniques.

• Polarity uses hands-on, exercise, and dietary techniques to promote the healthy flow of energy through the bioenergetics field. It is based in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine philosophy.
• Zero Balancing uses non-invasive, hands-on techniques to balance energy flow, connect the bodymind, and align the skeleton. It was developed by Dr. Fred Smith who is an osteopath and acupuncturist in 1973. It skillfully integrates multiple medical models.
• Ortho-bionomy uses gentle hands-on techniques and movements to bring a person into balance. It uses homeopathic and holistic philosophies and was developed by a British osteopath, Arthur Pauls, in the 1970s. Its name translated in Greek means “correct application of the laws of life”.