KENDAL COLLEGE

INTERGRATED THERAPIES

VTCT BEAUTY THERAPY NVQ LEVEL 3

PROVIDE MASSAGE TREATMENTS

UNIT B20

WORKBOOK

Student name: Sardana Sanderson Date handled in:15/12-2014

Amendments:

Tutor comments:

Signature: Date completed:

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1. What is the definition of massage?

A massage increases the blood circulation, brings nutrients and oxygen to the cells and all systems of the body.

Warms all tissues and produces an erythema Stimulates deep layers of skin increasing cellular function and regenerates body cells The removal of dead cells acid desquamation Sebaceous secretion increases moisturising the skin Increases lymphatic flow the removal of toxins and waste products Relaxes tense and contracted muscles improves a muscle tone removes physical tension in

the muscles Stimulates the nerve endings reliving muscular pain and fatigue Soften and break down localised fatty deposit Promotes a since of well -being. Improves venous and arterial circulation relieving congestion Rejuvenating

2. What could be some of the long term benefits of having regular massage treatments?

Promotes sense of well being less stressed tense relaxing feelings Encourage some client to adhere they diet healthy life style Removes physical and emotional tension Soften and break down fatty tissue Improves the blood circulation brings oxygen to the cells improves the colour of skin and

gives healthy glow Increase cellular regeneration Improves nutrition in the tissue and removes waste product more efficiently which increases

immune system Softens and moisturizes the skin.

3. Explain briefly the procedure for client preparation for a massage treatment:

You: The therapist should be wearing a uniform that does not restrict movement. Fully enclosed

low heeled comfortable shoes should be worn to prevent poor posture and backache. Hair must be tied up if it is below chin level to prevent it falling over the therapists face

during treatment. Sanitise hands prior to the treatments. Hand exercise should be practiced on regular basis. The client’s record card should be collected before their arrival. The therapist must be quiet, calm and reassuring. Prepare yourself before the client arrives. The treatment massage room should be prepared by setting the massage bed to the right

height, the lighting in the room should be soft and soothing and the temperature of the room to be 18 to 21 C.

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Soft music and clean towels will help t create nice atmosphere in the treatment room, this should be prepared prior the client’s arrival.

Watch, bracelets and rings should be removed. The nails should be cut short and the hands need to be warm.

Client: Ask the client to remove their clothing down to undergarments, maintaining the client’s

modesty at all time. Provide a private changing area for the client. Large towel or bathrobe can be provided for

the client to wear. Ask the client to remove all jewellery and accessories and store them in safe place –in a bowl

on the bottom of a trolley. Position the client for treatment. Instruct the client to lie on the couch in a spine position for

the body massage. Place towels over the client in a way which will allow minimal interruption to the treatment

and keep them warm. Cover the minor cut abrasions if needed with dressing prior to treatment. If client has long hair secure in a clip for neck and back treatments.

4. Explain the importance of the service time for a massage treatment:

It’s very important you finish the massage within the agreed time because: It prevents time wasted within the salon The client can calculate the time required for the treatment Clients are not left waiting Very important for cost effectiveness as well An effective appointment system is guaranteed

Full body massage including face and head - 1 hour 15 minArms - 10 minuteNeck and chest - 5-8 minutAbdomen-5-8 minLegs - 10 minuteBack of leg and buttocks - 8 minBack - 20 minute.Back massage or partial body massage - 30 minutes

5. Explain what repetitive strain injury is, how it is caused and how to avoid developing it when delivering massage treatments

A massage is a very physical treatment and therefore it is important that you prepare appropriately to prevent repetitive strain injury and have good posture throughout the treatment. If yo u have a bad posture you will find:-that you suffer from aches and pains.-the treatment will be more difficult to perform-you will tire more easily-you become easily irritated-the massage will be less effective.

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To prevent all that you should use the right techniques when carrying outa massage treatment:Stride stance - used when workings across the body keep back straight and bend u knees.

Walk stance - used when working along body. Place one foot in front of the other and use a rocking motion from one foot to the other whilst moving along the body. Keep your back straight.

Good posture - remember to keep your back straight shoulders pushed back where possible do not over stretch do not hyper extend the knee your weight as eventually balanced as possible.

Also performing mobilising and stretching exercises for your hands and wrists prior to massage to prevent any repetitive strain injuries from occurring and to enable a more successful massage to be performed. It is also important to stretch the muscles of your back shoulders and arms to avoid muscle damage.

6.Explain the importance of the client adopting the correct posture throughout the treatment and the impact this may have on themselves and the outcome of the treatment

It’s important to analyse the figure and posture of clients, before beginning any course of massage because it will ensure that the treatment recommended will be the most effective for the clients and their particular requirements. It will insure that the treatment chosen will not cause any harm or discomfort. The client will not feel relaxed and comforted if he/she is wrongly positioned on the massage bed. If the position is wrong the client will feel tense and so the therapist should be aware of seeing signs of tension or the wrong position. It will help therapists to recognize any faults which are not to be treated by them and may need to be referred to a doctor. When using more than one form of treatment it will influence the therapist’s decision about which treatment’s to use. It will ensure that treatment is not given unnecessarily if there are faults caused by some postural problems.

The initial figure assessment of clients is a visual one. This will show any problems they may have with their range of movement and even when they are fully dressed it is easy to access figure shape.The benefits of good posture allow the breathing to be deep and full. The chest is not contracted and so the airflow is not limited. The organs function better when they are not compressed and the even distribution of the body weight ensures that the body does not tire as much since certain muscles become relaxed and don’t need to work as much. If the bones are correctly positioned there will be no postural defects. As well as all this the figure looks better when the posture is right.

7. Why is it important to encourage clients to ask questions and record their responses?

Before treatment you have to obtain more information from client about their expectation and medical history, life style, contra indications, posture and exercise habits. As a therapist you must therefore be good at encouraging clients to give you that information. You need have good communicational skills, good questioning techniques, good observation skills and a visual and manual assessment. Also if required reference to other records.

It is also important because of these following reasons:

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To meet clients requirements. To make client relax during the treatment to make client feel confident in your service. You would feel less confident performing treatment as you do not have all the required

information. If you don’t obtain important information such as client signature or check for contra

indications then you can put the client at risk. This can make client taken legal action against salon

To make client satisfied and make them to come back to you. For good reputation for salon and your professional image.

8. What is the importance of medical liaison?

It’s important that the client provides medical liaison before receiving a massage. The therapist should ask questions and record the answers about medical history, any contra indications that could affect the treatment and how to prevent them from re occurring. Certain conditions may affect how the client needs to be positioned for the treatment and how long the client can lie still for the treatment choice and or how the treatment should be performed.

When asking about medical history the following questions should be asked:-Illnesses the client may have had-Operations with details-Accident and injuries sustained-Reoccurring problem-Muscular or skeletal problem-Digestive problem-Circulation(heart blood fluid cellulite kidneys bruises etc.,)-Gynaecological problems-Nervousness problems-Immune system-Others allergy asthma epilepsy diabetes etc.,-If the client is currently undergoing any form of medical treatment-Is the client taking any medication or drugs-Does the client smoke?

It’s also important to analyse the figure and posture of the client before beginning any course of body treatment for weight reduction or body shaping because:

-It will ensure that the treatment recommended will be the most effective for clients and them rudiments.-It will ensure that the treatment will not cause harm or discomfort-It will help therapist recognize any faults that is not treated by them and may need to be referred to a doctor-When using more than one treatment it will influence the therapist’s decision about which treatments to use-It will ensure that treatment is not given unnecessary if figure faults are caused by some simple postural problem

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9. Explain how to assess posture and skeletal conditions that may be present and how to adapt and change massage routines?

Good posture exists when all parts of the body are held in state of balance. This avoids unnecessary stress on the joints and skeletal muscles responsible for the state of the posture.

In the case of bad posture muscles are affected and have to work harder in order to correct imbalance, which can lead to an injury.Where muscles have become tightened and shortened apply deep effleurage and pertissage movements slowly to relax the muscles.

Remove physical tension on the muscles such as tension nodules and stretch the muscles. Where muscles become over straight perform stimulating petrissage and tapotement movements briskly to help these weakened muscles improve in straight tone and shorten.

To adapt the massage routine, the therapist should be informed of any requirements the clients seeks either by analysis or simply the client saying what he/she wants the massage to be focused on and or any bruises, allergies, anything that could affect the massage.

Relaxing massage- used to relive tension, avoid all stimulating movements and concentrate on eflleurage movements. The pressure should be firmer and the rhythm slower. A pre-heating treatment would be beneficial before massage.

Tight or contracted muscles - tapotement movement should be avoided and slow rhythmical movements should be used to help stretch the muscle. Concentrate your massage application on key sites or tension e.g. trapezius muscle.

Postural condition - At the consultation assessment of the client’s postural condition is important. This will aid in knowing how to change the massage to benefit the client.

10. How do you select the appropriate massage medium suitable for skin types and conditions?

Massage mediums

Oils - is the most popular medium used for body massage as it gives the most slip. Oil can be used on all types of skin however it’s most suitable for normal skin. If client quite hairy additional oil will be needed.

Cream - gives moderate amount of slip and its most beneficial on dry skin type as it Reacher in consistency.

Emulsion - is an oil and water based medium that is easily absorbed into skin and may often require subsequent application during the treatment

Gel - is water based product suitable for normal to oily skins. It’s light in formulation and is good for a client who does not like skin feeling greasy.

Powder - used for deeper massage as it provides less slip. Good to use on greasy skin type or on clients with perspiration problem.

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11. Explain the types and benefits of pre-heat treatments which can be used prior massage

The application of heat before a body massage will improve the effectiveness of the treatment. There are several different forms of heath treatment which may be used either for their own beneficial effects or to increase the benefits of other forms of body therapy.Heat therapy can have the following effects:

The circulation is increased warming the body An erythema Is produced which improves the overall skin colour The surface capillaries dilate helping to control body temperature. The sweat glands are stimulated to produce sweat which also helps in controlling body

temperature, and waste products are removed. The lactic acid accumulated in the muscles through exercise is dispersed with the increase in

circulation. The body temperature rises slowly causing the heartbeat to quicken in the same way as in

taking exercise. Tense muscles are relaxed. It promotes a sense of well-being in the client. The tissues are softened preparing them for treatment like the body massage, vacuum

suction, faradic, audio sonic, infra red and G5.

Infra red treatment

Infrared is divided into near infrared which is nearest to the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum and far infrared which is further away from the visible light.It produces infrared radiation and produces heat in the part of the body being treated. Infrared rays penetrate into the superficial epidermis only and heat is produced, warming and soothing the skin.Heat lamps which emit the infrared provide no visible light but produces heat. It can be used for a long time since it is less irritating than other forms of light. The infrared lamp has to be switched on at least ten to fifteen minutes before it required reaching its maximum intensity.

Benefits: An increase in circulation due to the applied heat. The blood vessels dilute and the increased

blow flow brings nourishment to the area being heated. Also increasing the lymph flow which removes waste products.

Mild heating reliefs pain by creating an analgesic effect on the superficial sensory nerve endings in the skin. It is helpful to ease the pain caused by an accumulation of waste products in the tissues. The increased flow of lymph helps in the speedier removal of these waste products.

The increase in temperature stimulates the sweat glands to produce more sweat, aiding the elimination of waste products and deep cleansing the skin. The warmth also allows creams to be absorbed better into the skin.

Muscles relax making them more responsive to further treatment. The soothing effect on the nerve endings relieves pain, so relieving tension in the body, helping the muscles to relax.

The infrared heat lamp treatment is used as a way of: As a starting treatment it prepares the client by relaxing the muscles before a body massage,

or electrical muscle stimulation. It allows easier creams and oils to be applied easier into the epidermis.

To relax a nervous or tense client. To relieve muscular pain or tension.

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To relieve pain in the joints. To replace other forms of heat treatment such as sauna or steam. To promote healing.

Vibratory treatment

Audio sonic- is an electrical massage treatment which is applied to certain areas of the face and body. The device is hand held and works by producing sound waves of 100-10,000 Hertz. The humming vibrating sound reaches through to cells and tissue of the skin, the distance the vibration reaches is 5cm and does not cause any damage to the skin. The treatment is particularly useful to those who have sensitive skin and or hypersensitive skin since there is no direct contact to the surface of the skin with any friction as there is with other massage treatments.

Benefits of treatment: Increased blood circulation, improves the colour of the skin and moves the nutrients and

oxygen to the cells and muscles. Increases venous and lymph circulation improving the removal of waste and toxins. The skin texture is enhanced by removing the surface skin cells. Relaxing muscles that were once tense. Softens tissue areas (adipose tissue) Increases the sebaceous gland activity by stimulating the skin.

On the body the treatment is used: On the cellulite especially the soft fat which holds less resistance than hard fat. Deep relaxation of contracted muscle treatment Fibrositis nodules in the trapezius muscle

For the facial use: Hypersensitive or vascular skin conditions Mature skin

G5- Gyratory vibrator was designed by M. Henry Cuinier and is mostly referred to as G5. The machine has several different applicator heads, made from sponge or rubber, which come in various shapes and sizes.They are all used during treatment to create a similar effect to a manual massage:

The sponge heads are used for effleurage The rubber heads are used for petrissage The spiky brush heads are used to stimulate similar effects to those produced by tapotement

The option to select the applicator head allows to it be changed to suit different areas being treated and the depth can be controlled by the pressure applied and type of applicator used.

Benefits : Stimulates the circulatory system, increasing blood flow to the area being treated and in

doing so nourishing the skin and muscles. Improving skin colour. Improves lymphatic flow and aids the removal of waste products. It improves the texture of the skin. Relaxes tense muscles. Eases muscular pain. Penetrates deep into the subcutaneous layer helping the separation of fatty tissues.

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It could motivate the client be helping them achieve the desired results in weight reduction and body shaping.

It also has several advantages over manual massage: It is far less personal and is therefore ideal in treating anyone who feels uncomfortable with

manual massage. It can produce greater depth of massage. It is far less tiring particularly for weight reducing purposes.

12. Explain how to adapt the massage sequence, depth and pressure to suit different client physical characteristics and areas of the body for manual massage

To suit the client’s purpose for the massage the therapist must be able to modify techniques, the most common reason a client will want a massage are the following:

1) Relaxation 2) Loosen stiff joints 3) Remove aches and pains 4) Tone slack flabby muscles 5) Relax contracted or tight muscles

1. Relaxation

More time should be spent on the back, working especially on the areas of tension normally found in the trapezius muscle and down the sides of the spine. Soothing stroking could be incorporated into the massage interspersed with effleurage.

2. Joint stiffness The massage should be applied to all muscles which act on the particular joint in question. Friction and finger kneading may be applied to the joint itself. Plenty of effleurage movements should be interspersed during the massage.

3. Muscular aches and pains Before performing massage the muscles may be warmed by applying heat in the form of a sauna or steam. More time should be spent on the areas which are particularly affected, and these areas must be pointed out by the client.

4. Slack muscles

This can occur for several reasons: After pregnancy Rapid weight loss Natural ageing process

The massage should be more stimulating using deep kneading and tapotement. As the muscles tone improves some of the petrisssage movements may be incorporated.

5. Tight or contracted muscles

The movement performed must be slow and rhythmical, in particular kneading and efflerurage, to

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help in stretching the muscles. Tapotement must be eliminated as this could prove painful.

13. Explain how to adapt the massage sequence, depth and pressure to suit different client physical characteristics and areas of the body for mechanical massage

There’s different levels of speed and intensity you can use for mechanical treatments, for example the gyratory machine, it has the following settings:

Speed 10-30 - restores tone in weak muscles good for working over sensitive areas of the skin effective for directional stroking works well with an ice or heat massage lymphatic drainage

Speed 30 – 50 well suited for a deep drainage massage general relaxation reduces tension improves the metabolism for deep lymphatic drainage deeper effects ate more pronounced at this speed works well with treating scar tissue adhesions

Speed 50 – 60 analgetic effect when treating the trigger points it aids in desquamation for a more stimulating effect improves the metabolism produces more erythema has a warming effect on the tissues

The audio sonic machine can be changed for different needs by adapting the applicator head, the one suited best for the treatment. After checking the intensity according to the client’s preference the treatment can then be applied using different techniques of movement circular, vertical lines and horizontal lines. When working in areas of the skin the movement should follow the contours of that area with strokes directed towards the heart, it’s important to remember to lower the intensity when going over bones.

For the infra red treatment as well as following the safety precautions it’s vital to carry out a skin sensitivity test. The test checks the client’s ability to distinguish sensations. It’s important that the client does not feel discomfort and wears googles if needed to. The lamp should be positioned correctly; a safe distance to keep it at is 18-36 inches. The skin reaction should be monitored closely and the feedback from the client should be regularly asked.

14. Explain the areas of the body and body characteristics needing particular care when undertaking mechanical massage

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High frequency machine treatments:

Ensure dials are at zero before applying the electrode onto the client. Test the machine on yourself prior to application. Always remove all jewellery to prevent shocks. Ensure that both you and the client are not in contact with anything metal otherwise you

may feel a shock. Explain about the buzzing noise, ozone smell and glow produced by the electrode. Always keep the electrode in contact with the skin to prevent shocks when applying the

direct method. Always keep one hand in contact with the skin when applying the indirect method to

prevent any shocks from occurring. Remember to reduce the intensity when working over bony areas. Do not spark further than 7mm away from the skin as this can cause tissue destruction or

shock the client. Do not use any products containing alcohol on the skin as it has flammable properties. Check client comfort throughout.

Audio sonic treatments:

Ensure dials are at zero before applying the electrode onto the client. Test the machine on yourself prior to application. Always remove all jewellery to prevent shocks. Ensure that both you and the client are not in contact with anything metal otherwise you

may feel a shock. Explain about the buzzing noise, ozone smell and glow produced by the electrode. Always keep the electrode in contact with the skin to prevent shocks when applying the

direct method. Always keep one hand in contact with the skin when applying the indirect method to

prevent any shocks from occurring. Remember to reduce the intensity when working over bony areas. Do not spark further than 7mm away from the skin as this can cause tissue destruction or

shock the client. Do not use any products containing alcohol on the skin as it has flammable properties.

Check client comfort throughout.

Infra red treatments:

Do not place flammable liquids near the lamp. Monitor the client closely throughout the treatment. Never exceed recommended treatment times. Never use infra-red to treat a sprain as it would worsen the condition. Protect the working area with a screen so that others do not walk into the lamp accidentally

when it is switched on. Allow the lamp to cool down in a safe place. Ensure that the skin is fully cleansed of any products prior to treatment otherwise a reaction

may occur. Do not place flammable liquids near the lamp. Monitor the client closely throughout the treatment. Never exceed recommended treatment times. Never use infra-red to treat a sprain as it would worsen the condition. Protect the working area with a screen so that others do not walk into the lamp accidentally

when it is switched on. Allow the lamp to cool down in a safe place. Ensure that the skin is fully cleansed of any products prior to treatment otherwise a reaction

may occur.

The gyratory treatment: the following will restrict treatment in the area: Sunburn

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Infected acne conditions Loose, scraped skin Sensitive and fine skin Over bony areas Over excessively hairy areas Over warts, skin tags or moles Treatment of the abdomen during pregnancy or menstruation Highly vascular conditions

15. Explain the advantages of using mechanical and manual massage together

Applying a mechanical and manual massage together saves time for the client and the therapist. It could serve particularly useful on a busy day at the salon and or if the client has a restricted time schedule. As well as this it has the following benefits:

Increases blood circulation at a faster rate Helps with removal of excess fluids Helps improve cellulite condition by removing excess fluids and waste products. Warms the tissue Prepare clients for manual massage Eases aches and pain Relaxing and soothing Increases lymphatic flow faster Detoxification leads to better toned skin Cellular activity is increased and metabolism is improved Tensions nodules are relaxed Heat treatments for example relax muscles before electrical muscles stimulation, or body

massage allows easier penetration of cream and oils into the epidermis Saves energy for a manual massage Better results in quicker time

16. List 3 conditions that would prevent a massage treatment:

Contagious skin conditions

Impetigo – A very contagious inflammatory infection that at first appears in red, itchy patches/spots and then as small blisters that leak serum and form honey coloured crusts. Commonly effects the nose, mouth and ears.

Tinea – A fungal infection of the skin commonly referred to as a body ringworm. It comes in small scaly red patches, which spread outward and heal from the centre, leaving a ring like effect on the skin.

Scabies – An infestation condition in which itch mites dig themselves into the skin and invade the hair follicles. At the beginning, tiny papules and wavy greyish lines appear, a secondary infection could occur due to scratching.

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Cancer

If a client has cancer, massage could be dangerous to perform because it could stimulate the cancerous cells to spread due to the stimulation of the lymphatic system. If the client is terminally ill, the massage can be performed as a way of relaxing and relieving pain, but this should only be done whist’s liaising closely with the client’s physicians.

Deep vein thrombosis

In this condition a blood clot is formed in the deep veins, usually located in the leg. The symptoms include warmth, redness, a swelled up leg and a pain or ache when standing/walking. A massage is not advisable because it could encourage the blood clot to dislodge and potentially travel and block a vital organ like the heart or lungs. This could be fatal.

17. List 3 conditions that would restrict a massage treatment:

EpilepsyA disorder of the brain caused by an abnormal discharge of electrical impulses. Causing a short attention span and in severe cases seizures that may result in unconsciousness. The client needs to inform you that they are epileptic.

DiabetesA diabetic has a reduced rate of healing and suffers with problems of the lower leg/foot. Problems include bruising and bleeding of the blood vessels. Massage treatments that cause perspiration or dilated blood vessels would disturb the blood sugar balance in the body. This could cause the client to be dizzy and even fall into a coma if their blood sugar changes from too high or low. The client would inform you of their condition.

High or low blood pressureThis could be identified by noting high colouring in the face, but the client is most likely to inform you in the consultation. The client could feel faint and palpitate during the treatment. To shrink the risk the massage bed/couch should be elevated slightly. A client with high or low blood pressure should be checked up on regularly.

18. How are skin sensitivity test carried out in Swedish massage?

A skin sensitivity test is important to carry out in order to test if the client’s sensory nerve endings are responsive to stimuli such as heat and touch.

Skin sensitivity testsUsing a sharp and smooth object lightly stroke this over the skin (usually the limb). This is called a tactile skin sensitive test.

Holding a test tube containing warm water followed by cold water next to the skin. This is a thermal skin sensitivity test.

Ask the client to differentiate between the different sensations. Record all the details of test accurately and let the client sign their record card. This enables continuity of treatment and up –to-

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date tracking of the treatments received.

20. List the three classifications of massage movements and their effects:

Massage is the manipulations of body tissues either manually or mechanically to produce beneficial effects on the muscular vascular and nervous system of the body.

Effleurage and stroking Petrissage Tapotement Vibrations

Effleurage and stroking are soothing smooth stroking movements which are divided into: Deep and superficial effleurage.

1.Deep and superficial strokingEffleurage tarts and concludes any massage sequence and is interspersed with other movements during the massage to provide continuity and ensure that the massage is as relaxing as possible keeping the hands constantly in touch with the clients.Effleurage is performed with the whole palmar surface of hand following the direction of the blood flow back to the heart and the lymphatic flow ending in a group of lymph glandsThe movement should be slow smooth and rhythmical with the hands to the area being treated ending in slight pressure and returning to the point of origin without breaking contact but exerting no pressure. The hands may perform the movement alternately or together

Effects: Improves general circulation Increases the flow of lymph removing waste product s more efficiently Soothes the sensory nerve endings what lead to relaxation Provides continuity of movement which promotes relaxation and allows the client to

become accustomed to massage Aids desquamation.

StrokingSoothing stroking is a slow rhythmical movement performed I any direction very gently with hand moulded lightly to the part. One hand may follow alternatively from the other or both hands may be used together. It stimulates the superficial nerve endings in the skin and revitalizing lethargic clients.

Effects: Soothes the superficial nerve endings in the skin Relives the tension Cools down a hot area of skin. Promotes relaxation Stimulating stroking is performed much more vigorously and again in any direction.

2.PetrissageThese are pressure manipulations and include the following movement.

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Kneading Picking up Wringing Rolling Friction

Effects of Kneading Increased blood supply to nourish and remove waste products. To promote relaxation and remove tension from the muscles. Prevents fatigue by removing lactic acid from the muscles. Relieves aches and pains. Aids joint mobility.

3.Picking UpDouble-handed picking up is when the muscle is lifted, squeezed and relaxed with both hands working alternately along the length of the muscle. Singled handed picking up is done with one hand on a small muscle area, for example deltoid and in this case the muscle is lifted and squeezed with the thumb on one side and the fingers on the other.Effects on Picking Up

A deep movement effective on stubborn areas of fatty tissue. Increase the circulation and lymphatic flow.

21. Explain how support and cushioning would be used during the treatment

A comfortable position avoids and reduces the act of straining the muscles in order to make the client relaxed. It must support the joints in the legs and not place too much pressure and tension in any other areas.

To make sure the client is enjoying the treatments and feels relaxed, comfortable and not tense the therapist should use special cushioning like towels rolled into tight rolls or cushions placed in areas to support limbs. These can be adjusted to suit the client.

22. How do you adapt the treatment for male or female clients? Creating a unisex environment moving away from pastel pink etc. Including the list of treatments for men in the treatments menu Purchasing a male skincare and body care range Promotion a male retail range of products

Male clients should be received in a polite and equal manner as female clients. The difference for male clients in the actual application of body massage should be varied in the following ways:

Specific instruction should be given when asking the client to prepare for the treatment. Place one towel widthways across the chest area, a towel folded into double layers

across the chest area, a towel folded into a double layer across the lower abdomen and finally a towel lengthways over legs.

Usually larger and denser strokes will be required. Avoid femoral triangle working only up to few inches above knee. The abdomen and

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buttock area also avoided if the female therapist is massaging a male client. Product choice depending on the amount of hair growth in the area being treated. Most men prefer products that feel light on the skin so select gel or lotion based

products Avoid highly perfumed products Always take a distance giving personal space to the client do not lean over unnecessarily

etc.

Always be professional and respectful both to a male and female clients and no suggestive comments or innuendo should be used.

Note: If a male therapist is massaging a female client the chest abdomen and buttock area should be omitted from the routine to prevent any discomfort or embarrassment.

23. How and when would you evaluate a massage treatment and why is it important?

The massage treatment should be evaluated by the therapist as it is taking place to adapt the massage in order to meet the aims of the agreed treatment plan. The therapist should keep an eye on the depth of pressure and ask the client during the treatment if it is the right pressure being applied. If not ask for feed back and change your pressure according to the client.

Here are further points: Observing the facial visual signs from the client help to identify if they are enjoying

themselves or feeling uncomfortable. Watching the body language and monitoring it will help also.

Watch for signs of contra-action or any negative reaction from the client and act accordingly if any of them occur

Watch for right positioning on the massage couch, if the client moves and is lying incorrectly ask the client to correct their positioning

Always ask which products as massage medium clients prefer for you to use because not everybody wants greasy skin, it’s important you and the client agreed to the right product

Monitor client satisfaction during and after treatment Record any contra action or any of the client’s comments after massage in a record card

25. Give 3 examples of contra actions that can occur during or after massage:

1. Excessive erythema - due to stimulation of the circulation during the-heat treatment or body treatment. The warmth created in the capillaries dilates, bringing blood closer to skin surface.

2. Allergic reaction - would appear as erythema accompanied by irritation, itching or hives and would take a few days to disappear. The erythema is due to a histamine reaction that occurs as the body tries to protect itself. If you notice that the client has developed an allergic reaction you should immediately remove the products from their skin with cold water or damp cotton wool.

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3. Bruising - occurs if blood capillaries are damaged during the treatment. Bruising occurs as a result of over vigorous application of massage techniques.

26. What can be some of the beneficial effects of improving lifestyle.

Improving your life style by doing regular exercises will: Improve the balance of fats in the blood Strengthens the heart muscles Increases blood circulation It increases the oxygen intake Firms, tones and strengthens the muscles Increases the mobility of the joints Increases flexibility and suppleness Helps with relaxation The posture is improved Higher level of energy Lowers your resting blood pressure levels Uses up calories to help with weight control Make you feel and look good Helps to relieve stress Helps to enjoy the process of exercising

Exercise therefore is important and choosing the right type to suit age, health and lifestyle will ensure success. As well as exercise if the fat in the diet is reduced and replaced by a healthy well balanced diet and a regular amount of exercise is taken then weight loss will result.

27. How can healthy eating and exercise improve the effectiveness of the treatment?

The shape of the figure can be improved by diet which will then help in removing fatty deposits stored in the subcutaneous layer of the skin. It can also help to use forms of electrical treatment to tone and firm muscles and or improve a cellulite condition. Exercise helps to reshape the body by building up, strengthening and toning muscle as well as having other benefits which contribute to overall health and well being of the client.

Benefits of exercise: It increases the circulation because of the pumping action in the blood vessels It increase oxygen intake he heart is a muscle and exercise makes it stronger and work more efficiently It firms tones and strengthens the muscles It increase joint elasticity It increase flexibility and suppleness It aids in relaxation It improves posture. Energy level is increased Burns of excess fat Creates adrenaline Builds up stamina and overall strength

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The lymphatic system improved by removing waste productions more efficiently The heart is a muscle and exercise makes it stronger and work more efficiently Bones are nourished and fed through exercise and mobility in the joint is increased Metabolism is increased which helps those clients who wish to loose weight Tension is relieved promoting general relaxation and improving the ability to sleep

28. What aftercare could you advise for your client?

Before the client gets up from the massage couch gently remove any remaining massage medium using a towel or strong tissues.

Advice the client to take time when they getting up from the couch in order to allow the blood circulation to return to normal. At least a few minute rest before standing up.

Advice not to use the strong exercises or use of gym. Advice a client to have some rest time for few hours and not to eat heavy food or drink

alcohol. To drink plenty of fluids preferably water to replace fluids lost. Take some time to take a relaxing bath with suitable products like a suitable bath product to

moisturise the skin. To use anti-cellulite products like skin exfoliates, body brush, and bath and shower

products, to relive muscular pain. Drink plenty of water and follow a healthy life style. Give encouragements and guidance

only. Dietary advice. How to improve current diet, eating healthy and drinking habits. Future treatments. Explain the benefits of continuous treatments- the frequency depends on

the client’s needs, free time and budget. A general recommendation is once a week for a specific problem.

I’ve sourced the literature from the Kendal College Moodle site, Kendal College Student Workbook: NVQ Level 3 Beauty Therapy Student Copy (Body Massage), Beauty Therapy: 3rd Edition - Lorraine Nordmann and The Beauty Therapy: Fact File – Susan Cressy.

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