Breast Massage

(The following post is a combination of two separate articles that were originally published in the Bugle-Observer in October of 2010.)

In celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, please read and share this post with your loved ones.

(Artwork is by Jody Noel Coughlin and can be purchased at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/PoedyPencilPrincess?ref=em)


Massage education in Canada includes training in breast tissue, conditions of the breast and treatment of the breast.

There are many positive clinical indications where breast tissue massage is ideal; to increase circulation, to increase mobility, to decrease excess fluid and to help monitor any tissue changes through increased awareness of breast tissue.

Consent is required in all types of treatment. Due to the highly sensitive nature of breast massage, it is protocol to speak about the treatment process, draping of the sheets, type of techniques, and all areas to be massaged, (including areas of the body to be omitted) prior to the massage.

Specific consent from the client is required.

As with all massage sessions, that consent may be revoked by the client at any moment after their consent has been given. In no uncertain terms if the treatment is uncomfortable, let the therapist know you want to stop the treatment. RMTs are professionals that do not want to disturb the client’s comfort or trust. If such a request ever goes unanswered, you are urged to contact the provincial association. Both of the associations in New Brunswick have websites which are located on the ‘links’ page of the Celtic Knots website. (www.celticknotsclinic.ca)

After the information and procedure are discussed, a general treatment of the back or other agreed upon areas other than the breasts may be offered. This serves as an introduction to the therapist's touch and allows the client to absorb the information. The client will then be sent home with some reading material to think the process over. Not until the subsequent appointment will the breast massage be performed.

Upon return for the second appointment a review of the content of information will be addressed. Prior to the treatment, the procedure of breast massage will be reviewed, including a reminder that at any time during the treatment the client may stop the treatment if they so wish. Even if a client was at first quite keen on the massage, they may for a slew of different reasons opt out last minute. There will be no pressure from the RMT as breast massage, although highly effective and beneficial, is not mandatory.

A risk involved with breast massage is that due to the nature of the treatment, and the length of time spent massaging the breast tissue, lumps or other types of nodules may be found. RMTs are responsible to bring such findings to the attention of the client, but are not at any time qualified to diagnose such a discovery. This includes speculation. For example, "That might be a tumour." is not good practice as an RMT. If a suspicious lump or nodule is found, the RMT will ask the client to locate it using their own hands, and suggest follow up inquiry with a qualified professional to examine the mass.

Also, tenderness may ensue on behalf of the area not being used to touch. Home care for breast massage will include ways for the client to remedy any discomfort.

Breast massage, if not fulfilling for any other reason, helps an individual become aware and reconnected with a part of themselves that may be at a disconnect.

The breasts can be undraped one at a time, both at the same time, or the client may opt to keep a sheet over the breasts. This is always an option for clients; RMTs are trained to pursue the treatment with the modifications. It will be advised if the client takes this approach, that the treatment effects will be somewhat compromised compared to skin to skin contact where the therapist can assess the texture and temperature of the tissue.

The nipple and areola regions of the breasts are never touched during the treatment. Great care is taken to avoid these regions of the body. Self care may include instruction for self massage with these areas for a specific treatment such as scar tissue work.

Due to the location of many lymph nodes in the breast tissue, a technique called lymphatic drainage massage is performed in the beginning to help any excess fluid drain. Secondly, the muscles surrounding the tissue are addressed, and then the breasts are massaged. Lastly, the shoulder joint is massaged to help encourage continual relaxation as well as fluid drainage.

Massaging breast tissue is not always ideal. Such times include lactation mastitis, an infection during breastfeeding, specific work directly on a discovered lump prior to having it checked or simply if either the client or the RMT are unable to remain neutral and professional during the procedure.

The RMT is trained to recognise warning signs that require immediate attention such as clear discharge or blood from the nipple, both possible indicators of cancer.

Indications where breast massage is ideal; swelling or painful breasts, drainage problems, poorly restricting scars, premenstrual pain, simply that the client seeks a professional, trusting environment to receive assistance with breast monitoring, or even to become more comfortable with one’s own body.

Breast augmentations, lumpectomies, breast reductions or a single or double mastectomy are all common factors in breast health that are familiar realities with women. All four of these situations would dictate specific considerations for the treatment, including scar tissue work if apporved by the client.

Ask your massage therapist about further information about breast massage, including who practices breast massage in your area.

Awareness is primary to change. Be part of the movement to take care of all women and spread awareness and familiarity. Let us ALWAYS talk openly to one another about breast health and ways to witness early detection of cancer.

Infant & Pediatric Massage

Massage therapy is for every age group. From pregnancy to the elderly, the benefits of therapeutic touch reach everyone.

Little people need not be forgotten. They get tired out and stressed just like the rest of us. Although they may not have knots in their back(but often do), they certainly can carry stress, be it from school, playgrounds, developmental changes, or home life. Offering them a sense of self care from an early age is a commendable way to begin their journey of healthy body and body image.

As early as infancy, massage can be introduced as a complimentary approach for the whole family and the new baby. Mothers and fathers are able to enjoy the bonding opportunity through the one on one contact. Grandparents and older siblings can partake as well.

Infant massage instruction is offered to parents seeking natural, efficient way to bond with baby. Classes are run with the parent practicing on the infant as the RMT demonstrates on a doll.

Babies that receive massage are known to sleep better, be more content and experience an added boosted immunity. Nurturing touch through massage also helps reduce fussiness and colic.

In an infant class, parents or caregivers will be taught how to notice the cues baby gives when they have had enough of the treatment. Massaging a baby (or anyone) against their wishes is strongly discouraged. Only welcomed massage is healthy massage.

Massage enhances mental, emotional, social, physical and brain development through positive, appropriate touch.

Children are also inclined to benefit from massage therapy. They are more likely to participate in the treatment than adults, such as through story telling and imagry.

Dealing with injuries at an early age can potentially prevent long withstanding accumulation of problems so often seen on the massage table with adults.

Just as with adults, the proper protocol for offering massage includes the practice of asking permission to the baby or child. Although this may seem odd at first, establishing this routine leads to future development of the young client’s self confidence, creating and maintaining healthy body boundaries that will carry them throughout life.

It is important that the RMT and parent practice permission-based massage each and every treatment. When selecting a therapist to massage your child, be sure to check if they honour this procedure.

Pediatric massage has added value with children coping with long term illness. Having the option to pick which body parts to be treated, not treated or even to say no to the session entirely enables the child a sense of empowerment during a time when so much procedure is mandatory.


A half hour appointment is plenty of time for kids. Flexibility during the treatment is a must as well. A full body treatment will model that of a treatment for any aged client – that only the area being treated will be uncovered at that time.

In our ever increasingly busy lives, having a positive routine such as massage is a sure way to nurture wellness. Instil positive self care in your loved one and offer them a chance to experience a massage today.

Even Santa Learns the Hard Way

(Archived from 2009)

Santa is a very hard working, high profile man.

His days consist of endless desk work and reading letters. During his peak season stress heightens as toy production increases.

Many months are spent watching the girls and boys, checking who’s naughty and nice. Then more planning, management meetings with his top elves, etc. He soon forgets to take deep breathes.

Finally, it’s Christmas time.

After the big day, he retreats on a hot summer vacation with the Mrs.

That’s when the problem starts. No sooner is he off the plane and ordering a ….. milk, his back goes out on him. He accepts it as part of the job and suffers. Never mind that Mrs. Claus is tapping her toes and biting her lip, disappointed that she’s missing out on the couples limbo party on the beach, again!

Every year it is the same story.


Well, one year the conditions were a bit extreme. The snow was a bit more slushy, the chimneys didn’t seem to be as clean, the head elf broke his arm and was out of work. Santa had a hard year.

During vacation, as Santa sat down at the…restaurant to order his…milk, he was in complete agony. Even as he sat, it took some careful maneuvering. Just as he thought about the future of Christmas with his terrible back health, a woman sitting near him spoke up.

He recognized her from a previous Holiday Icon Conference. It was none other than the Tooth Fairy.

He was shocked to hear that she, too had suffered from back pain. After all, what could be so strenuous about picking teeth from underneath pillows? She reminded him that due to inflation, her role is a stressful one. Combined with flying with lots of coins on one shoulder, she was a wreck.

She went on to tell her method of combating her pain. It included some pretty specific stretches and hydrotherapy. Santa decided to listen to her story and copy her routine. She looked like she knew what she was talking about, and she has remained on the ‘good’ list for centuries.

Day one of this new approach to Santa’s back health was OK. Day two was terrible. He could no longer walk, let alone lay in his lounge chair enjoying the beach. Mrs. Claus felt bad for him. She booked him an appointment with a registered massage therapist.

During the interview, he told his story in great detail, mentioning his new routine that he copied from his friend. The RMT stopped him and pointed to the muscle chart. Showing him the high number of muscles and potential different problems that he could have, he soon realized the mistake he had made.

After a successful first treatment, he listened carefully to the stretches given specific for his injury. He was somewhat embarrassed that they were almost opposite of what he had been doing before.

He hired an RMT to join his North Pole community and lived happily ever after.

One thing that Santa does do right is remember to laugh. (Endorphins, or ‘feel good’ hormones are released with laughter, just as with massage therapy.)

Ho, ho, ho Merry Christmas from Celtic Knots Family Massage Therapy.

(*Names and exact locations may have been altered to comply with confidentiality standards.*)

Pregnancy Massage

“When Mama ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy.”

With much anticipation for the soon to be newborn, concentrating on the mom’s well being is imperative to good health. Massage therapy during pregnancy is an excellent way to rest the body, soothe the aches and nurture the ever adapting and growing mother.

Back pain, sciatic pain and general discomfort due to the shifting weight distribution that comes with pregnancy can be reduced with relaxation massage. Enjoying an hour in a soothing, quiet atmosphere will help the mother to feel rejuvenated and refreshed. Massage helps relieve stress on weight-bearing joints and can help reduce swelling as well.

Cushions and pillows are added to assist the client in an effective side lying position leaving them well supported. With the comfort of soft music and recent adjustments in sleep patterns, clients often fall asleep during the session.

First trimester requires extra precaution and care. Abdominal massage is held off until second trimester. If a client is pregnant in their first trimester and is tempted to keep the news from the RMT in efforts to their privacy, it is strongly urged that they tell the therapist prior to the appointment. Confidentiality is a standard in the profession. Being safe during any treatment is a must for everyone.

RMTs trained in pregnancy massage will know when not to treat a client during underlying conditions or how to modify the treatment for their safety.

Trained therapists are well versed in the varying developing stages of pregnancy and know how to facilitate comfort during such challenges as fatigue, morning sickness, heartburn, postural changes, blood pressure issues.

Pregnancy massage training is covered in every massage college in Canada. Schools must prepare the student to be able to treat the pregnant individual. This means that all RMTs are capable to treat pregnant client.

There is optional training above and beyond the general offered in school, a 120-hour extended pregnancy course, such as the one offered through Trimesters Massage Therapy Education in Toronto, Ontario. Ask the therapist when booking the appointment if they work with pregnant clients. Some RMTs opt to not focus on pregnancy but may be able to refer potential clients to those RMTs in the area that do.

In addition to the treatment, the therapist can instruct the expectant mother self care exercises and hydrotherapy (the application of water, hot or cold) during pregnancy. These tips will help the pregnant client ensure some added comfort in between appointments.

Aquatic massage during pregnancy, particularly the last trimester, is an excellent alternative treatment which allows the mother to safely float on her back and enjoy the rewards of a massage in the warmth of a therapy pool.

RMTs cannot undo what Mother Nature has done – the body will grow, some muscles will tighten, some will stretch – but a good massage can make all the difference in comfort along the way.

Help “make Mama happy” and book a pregnancy massage today.

Aquatic Massage Therapy

Complimentary to the various styles of massage therapy in Carleton County, an aquatic massage therapy treatment is a productive way to spend some time nurturing the body.

This passive treatment alternative offers a deeply effective total body experience in the comfort of warm water (97 F). The client wears floatation straps on the legs while the therapist holds the body in various positions while supporting the face out of the water. Instead of feeling the pressure from above the client’s body, the therapists’ hands effectively work from underneath the person in conjunction with the buoyancy from the warm.

During the 50 minute treatment the client effortlessly floats while the therapist massages different areas of the body. The session involves a combination of range of motion exercises and superficial massage techniques in a fluid, gentle sequence. Often the quiet environment offers the client an experience of sensory isolation, allowing them to forget that the water or therapist is present. Low-gravity from the buoyancy of the warm water allows the relief of pressure on all joints simultaneously.

Aquatic massage is ideal for post surgery healing, arthritis and other joint conditions, pregnancy discomfort, neurological conditions, anxiety-based conditions such as insomnia and many other conditions.

Aquatic massage is an alternative option if table massage is too rigorous for a client’s preference or if a client is unable to lie on the table comfortably.

Clients also choose this type of treatment to help overcome fear of water, for general stress reduction and maintenance and for those for those who simply enjoy massage and water.

Like all types of massage, the aquatic treatment is not for everyone. Individuals with open wounds or sores, those susceptible to motion sickness and anyone with a medically supervised condition who does not have permission to proceed with an aquatic therapy treatment.

This technique was born from a combination of Watsu® and Jahara®, two aquatic therapies popular throughout the world. It was transformed into a massage modality by Claudia Salzmann, RMT of The Waters, Niagra-on-the-Lake, Ontario.

Salzmann adapted her training from these two therapies to make aquatic massage touch appropriate, bio-mechanically safe and treatment-oriented. In 1999 Salzmann’s work was approved by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario.

Celtic Knots is pleased to introduce this to New Brunswick and has gained immediate acceptance, both by the Association of New Brunswick Massage Therapists and various health insurance providers.

Treatments are available at a therapeutic pool at Riverside Court Retirement Residence, 870 Main Street, Woodstock.

Shed the tension of a chilly fall and enjoy an aquatic appointment today.

Reiki

If a massage therapy treatment is compared to a buffet meal, Reiki would be the ice cream Sunday dessert. It is a complimentary technique that is most versatile and beneficial.

Discussing energy in its simplest form is important when seeking to understand Reiki.

Everywhere we look there are examples of energy; when we go for a walk, a busy mall full of stressed out, hurried shoppers, a toddler bouncing about at a birthday party, a little shock from touching a television screen, and on and on. These forms of energy are obvious.

More subtle forms of energy exist around us as well. We are comprised of trillions of cells, and in each of those cells, many things are happening all at once, then all over again, continuously. Even when we are still, there is movement. There is a life force, an energy.

If someone's energy is low, then they are more likely to get sick or feel stressed. Reiki is a fantastic modality to combat these common occurrences.

In Japanese, rei means "God's Wisdom or the Higher Power" and ki means "life force energy". It is practiced by the laying on of hands and is based on the idea that the unseen life force is a powerful and natural tool for healing and self-improvement.

Benefits of Reiki are similar to those of massage; it Induces relaxation, develops inner peace and self awareness, reduces stress, sooths anxiety, increases energy and a sense of well being. In addition to these, help shorten recovery time after surgery, and help cultivate compassion for all living things. Reiki compliments all other therapies as it is gentle and non invasive.

Reiki is not a religion. It does not hold any religious creed or doctrine to any one religious background or denomination. It can be practiced and experienced by anyone regardless of their religious orientation without conflict to their faith. It is however important for the client to feel comfortable receiving the treatment. A great web site further hammering out these details can be found at www.christianreiki.org .

Reiki is already used in our everyday lives, when we hug a loved one or kiss a child’s sore spot, when we place our hands on our chest in disbelief or awe, when we hold our head when it aches. When applied during a treatment setting, clients often experience a deep felt state of relaxation and recuperation.

There are a number of practitioners in Carleton County as well as opportunities for training in Reiki.

To learn more visit the Canadian Reiki Association at www.reiki.ca .

Massage for Seniors

Massage therapy is great for all ages, but a segment of the population that could benefit from it the most, use it the least. They have known the planet for many a spin around the sun, fittingly coined the golden age group.

With the elderly, there are a few general challenges in getting them in the clinic room door. Women who spent the majority of their adult years caring for others (often before themselves) are hesitant at the idea of receiving manual care. Gentlemen may be reserved about massage due to the reputation massage parlours have shed on the profession.

Commonly, massage is seen as a therapy that is not needed, something that, after a series of other medical appointments, and perhaps in combination with adjusting to the transition in control of life’s decisions to family members, they decline. Just as in paediatric massage, simply saying no to a treatment is at the very least claiming power, be it power to choose the treatment or power to refuse it.

Including regular massage in a senior’s life is well worth a second look. The regrettable, yet common occurrences in the senior’s age group of losing a spouse or pet can mean a new found lack of touch in a their life. Minimal or interrupted sleeping patterns also plague the elderly.  Pain becomes accepted as the norm. Touch, relaxation and pain relief are few examples of where older adults can reap the rewards of incorporating massage into their lives.

Registered therapists are trained in dealing with a myriad of conditions specific to the elderly, such as chronic pain, back pain, arthritis, bursitis, fibromyalgia, headaches, diabetes and cancer. The preventative perks of a relaxation massage include reduction in stress, decreased blood pressure pain, increased circulation, increased skin temperature and overall wellness. Registered therapists know the precautions needed when clients are taking medications to adapt massage techniques appropriately.

An RMT confident in working with the senior population will offer assistance in dressing and undressing in a manner which preserves the client’s privacy and dignity. A robe should be on hand if the appointment needs to be interrupted for an emergency bathroom break.

There are also audio adaptations to be mindful of with the geriatric age group; conducting the health history form verbally if needed, facing the client when speaking and sitting to the side where hearing is intact are all indications of a well suited RMT.

Health insurance premiums are sometimes too high an expense when including extras such as massage therapy for a retired individual. Sometimes the cost of the treatment is enough to keep seniors away. Check around for a therapist that honours a seniors discount, and who offers half hour appointments.

Look for a therapist that enjoys offering the extras, such as a courtesy call the day before to remind client of appointment, the option to add extra warmth to the table and or room, and someone who can provide instructions, stretches and the next appointment in writing.