TERM I

MSS 0001: Medical Ethics and Standards

Course presents a detailed exploration of ethics and professionalism as it relates to massage therapy, focusing on the development and application of appropriate professional boundaries and the psychological dimensions of the client-therapist relationship. Licensure, national certification, medical errors, professional organizations, malpractice insurance, sexuality, cultural diversity, and the other concepts related to ethical practice are discussed. State Statutes and Administrative Codes are presented.

MSS 0155:  Anatomy and Physiology of Body Systems

Course uses both Western and Eastern medical approaches to present a survey of the structure, function, and chemistry of the human body in health and disease; while considering the following topics-body organization, cells, tissues, membranes, glands, the Integumentary System, the Cardiovascular System, the Lymphatic System, the Endocrine System, the Respiratory System, the Digestive System, and the Urinary System. Medical terminology, abbreviations and symbols are incorporated along with a general knowledge of anatomical science while focusing on the aspects that are most important to massage therapy. Specific benefits, systemic contraindications, local contraindications and cautions that influence massage are presented.

MSS 0156:  Anatomy and Physiology for Massage Therapy

Course offers in-depth training in those sciences that are necessary to perform effective massage-myology, osteology, kinesiology, neurology, and pathology. Eastern medical philosophy is presented with a focus on Five Element theory. Students study muscle histology along with the major muscles of the axial and appendicular segments of the body and their location, origins, insertions, innervations, actions, postural considerations, and relationships to acupuncture meridians and point locations. The skeletal system is examined, emphasizing its role in movement and posture. The nervous system is introduced and an analysis is made of the basic kinds of cells, the physiology of the nerve impulse, and the role of neurotransmitters. The influence of massage on the function of the neuromusculoskeletal anatomy is described. Planes of movement and lever classification are discussed.

MSS 0156L:  Anatomy and Physiology for Massage Therapy Lab

Course provides integration of neuromusculoskeletal anatomy into therapeutic application of massage. Muscles, nerves and bones are identified and located using surface and gross anatomy. Structural kinesiology is presented with in-depth discussion of terminology used to describe body part locations, reference positions, and anatomical directions. Various types of bones and joints and their characteristics are discussed. Joint movements are described and demonstrated. Different types of muscle contractions and how muscles function are also described and demonstrated. Basic biomechanical factors and concepts are presented. Palpation of the human body, the use of charts, models, and interactive technology allow students to study with their hands-an essential prerequisite for effective practice of massage.

MSS 0250:  Introduction to Massage Theory and History

Course presents an introduction to the massage therapy profession. Effective and appropriate communication techniques for management of the client-therapist relationship are presented along with communication skills necessary for working with colleagues in the health care community. Responsibility to the professional community and one’s own community through civic participation and membership in a professional association are discussed. The theory and history of massage therapy are explored.

MSS 0250L:  Introduction to Massage Therapy Lab

Course explores the effects, precautions and variations associated with basic massage strokes and issues associated with touch and trust. Classical Swedish massage is taught with a strong emphasis on proper draping, lubrication, bolster use and turning procedures. Appropriate use of pressure, rhythm and movement to enhance the massages’ effects are developed. In-depth palpation and assessment skills are used to locate areas of tension or discomfort. Efficient body mechanics, centering and breathing techniques while performing massage are practiced. Throughout the training, hygiene and self-care are basic components. While developing strong technical skills, theory is emphasized to ensure that the theoretical material is grounded in hands-on practice. Students may be required to engage in practice massage sessions as a community service outside of scheduled class hours.

TERM II

MSS 0281:  Allied Modalities

Course presents basic principles of allied modalities such as polarity therapy, Eastern massage disciplines, trigger point therapy, deep tissue massage, reflexology, myofascial release, muscle energy techniques, and others. Specific techniques are related to the activities or needs of unique populations as appropriate, including older adults, children, persons with disabilities, and athletes. Introduction to the basic elements of other natural health care disciplines is presented.

MSS 0281L:  Allied Modalities Lab

Course describes and demonstrates various massage techniques to help promote relaxation and relieve muscle tension via palpation as well as by determining joint range of motion; then applying massage, exercise and stretching to support normal motion, muscle tone and relaxation. General techniques for full body and seated massage are practiced as an integration of all modalities, based on the patient/clients need. Emphasis continues on the development of correct body mechanics, injury prevention, table management, draping methods, and charting. Hands-on skills in several modalities such as reflexology, manual lymph drainage and neuromuscular therapy are developed. In addition to laboratory sessions, students may be required to engage in practice massage sessions as a community service outside of scheduled class hours.

MSS 0300: Hydrotherapy

Course presents the therapeutic use of superficial or deep heat and cryotherapy with an emphasis on developing an ability to make professional judgments about the application of the appropriate modality for each situation. The history of hydrotherapy and principles of hydrotherapeutic equipment, applications, indications, and contraindications are discussed. Basic principles of ultrasound, interferential current, TENS and electrical stimulation are presented.

MSS 0300L:  Hydrotherapy Lab

Course offers practical experience in the use of cold, heat and hydrotherapies. Applications of physical agent modalities are practiced with emphasis on proper technique, safety, indications and contraindications. Spa treatments are demonstrated and practiced, such as hot stone therapy and paraffin. Aromatherapy is defined and practiced. Therapeutic use of light and sound is discussed. Students may be required to engage in practice massage sessions as a community service outside of scheduled class hours.

MSS 0803L:  Massage Therapy Clinical Practicum

Course encourages the synthesis and integration of principles and techniques learned across the curriculum.  Students provide comprehensive massage therapy services in the massage therapy lab under direct supervision, including specific upper and lower body techniques. Introduces the experience of working in a massage clinic including learning principles of relating to clients, keeping records, determining fees, billing insurance, marketing and building a massage practice, maintaining hygiene standards and other activities. Students participate in case conferences and/or other professional discussions. Students may be required to engage in practice massage sessions as a community service outside of scheduled class hours.