Half-round bolsters help support the neck.

Bolstering Basics

Most massage therapists use these basic bolstering techniques in the following positions:

• Prone

  The most common bolstering method for the prone position is a full massage bolster under the ankles, one under the pelvis, and, for some clients, under the upper chest area at the sternal notch.

• Supine

  The most common bolstering method for the supine position includes a thin neck bolster, a bolster under the knees, and sometimes a pillow under the entire lower leg from knee to foot.

  If your client has trouble breathing in the supine position, elevate the head and shoulders more to allow for easier breathing. Likewise, if your client is experiencing congestion, he or she may appreciate an extra boost in elevation.

• Side

  Bolstering is especially important in the side-lying position to support the client’s head and neck and to cushion the top leg and top arm. Most clients are comfortable with the top leg resting on a bolster and the top arm supported by a soft pillow they can hug to their chest. A bolster along the back can also provide extra support in the side-lying position and can be removed as needed for better access to the client’s back.

Ask for Feedback

Before bolstering, ask the client if there’s any need for extra bolstering, such as for an injury, sore spot, or painful area that might be irritated or eased through bolstering. After bolstering according to the client’s requests or your normal method, ask if the client is comfortable and adjust the bolsters as needed.

Give Yourself Options

Keep a variety of bolsters (round and half round), pillows, and rolled towels at hand to cover any bolstering needs you may come across. Each client is different, and what works for one client may not work for another.

Are you looking for unique gift ideas for a massage therapist in your life? It’s that time of year again, and we’re here to help you out with your holiday shopping!

Browse through the list below to spark your creative juices for massage therapist gift items! The following gift ideas are listed in order from least expensive to most expensive.

Massage Tool

1. Massage Tools

   Massage tools are a great way for massage therapists to save their hands. They are also a relatively inexpensive gift.
   
   Price: Starting at $9.99 from OneTouch Massage

 




Sample Kit

2. Massage Oil

   Professional therapists often enjoy trying new massage lubricants, including oils, lotions, gels, and creams. Just make sure the massage oil that you purchase is a professional-grade lubricant.
   
   Price: Starting at $11.99 from OneTouch Massage

 




Product Holster

3. Product Holster

   These handy massage accessories keep the oil or lubricant right at the therapist’s side during the massage. Great for mobile therapists or any professional therapist.
   
   Price: Starting at $14.99 from OneTouch Massage

 


4. Reed Diffuser / Candles

   For a special gift that creates an aura of peaceful relaxation, give a set of reed diffusers, candles, or a candle warmer.
   
   Price: Under $15

 


5. CDs

   New music is a practical and thoughtful gift for any therapist. Choose a relaxing CD (soft jazz, nature sounds, instrumental, etc.) that the therapist can play during sessions and to relax on his or her downtime. If you’d rather leave the choice of music to your therapist, give an iTunes gift card.
   
   Price: Under $20

 


6. Magazine Subscription

   If your massage therapist is not a member of a professional organization, he or she may enjoy a subscription to Massage & Bodywork or Massage Therapy Journal (members receive a free subscription). If your massage therapist already receives these magazines, he or she may enjoy a subscription to a different massage magazine, such as Massage Magazine or Massage Today, or to a health magazine that relates to their interests.
   
   Price: Starting at $19.95 / year

 




Bolster Pillow

7. Bolsters

   New massage equipment, such as bolster pillows, are a great way to support a massage therapist in his or her business. Old equipment wears out, and extra equipment always comes in handy.
   
   Price: Starting at $24.99 from OneTouch Massage

 




Reflexology DVD

8. Massage DVDs and Books

   Most therapists enjoy learning new techniques and brushing up on old ones. A massage therapy DVD on a unique modality, such as reflexology, would be a welcome gift for any professional therapist.
   
   Price: DVDs Starting at $29.99 from OneTouch Massage

 




Massage Linens

9. Massage Linens

   Show your support for your massage therapist by giving her a brand new set of sheets and face cradle covers. With constant washing and use, massage sheets wear out quickly and need to be replaced often.
   
   Price: Starting at $29.99 from OneTouch Massage

 




Table Warmer

10. Massage Table Warmer Pad

    In colder climates, table warmer pads are a hot item! Your massage therapist will love this luxurious addition to her top-notch service.
    
    Price: $54.99 from OneTouch Massage

 




Deluxe Table Bag

11. Deluxe Carry Bag

    A step up from basic massage table bags, the deluxe carry bag includes room for other massage supplies, including oil, linens, bolsters, and CDs.
    
    Price: $59.99 from OneTouch Massage

 




Table Cart

12. Massage Table Cart

    For the massage therapist on the go, a table cart is a gift that makes transporting a massage table and equipment easy and enjoyable.
    
    Price: $69.99 from OneTouch Massage

 


13. Gift Certificate for Massage

    As busy as the holidays get, your massage therapist will enjoy the chance to relax and enjoy the healing power of massage. Although many therapists trade massages, it’s more relaxing for them to receive a massage without having to give a massage in return.
    
    Price: $40-$70

Without certain massage table accessories, your options for client positioning are severely limited. That’s why most massage therapists look for a massage table package that includes a headrest and arm shelf, at the very least.

Other massage table packages may include side arm extenders, a massage table bag, bolster pillows, or a table cart. These accessories can also be purchased separately. So if you don’t have the funds to purchase all of the massage table accessories you need when you purchase the table, you can always make these purchases later or as the need arises.

Face Cradle / Headrest

An aluminum face cradle offers strength and durability.

Several types of headrests are available on the market. The cheapest headrests are stationary, which means you can’t adjust the height or angle. For a slightly higher price, you can buy a face cradle that allows for multiple adjustments. Most therapists prefer adjustable face cradles for more flexibility in client positioning.

Headrests are made from different materials. Some headrest materials are stronger and more durable than others. Plastic is the cheapest type of headrest but does not have the same strength or durability as metal or aluminum.

Forward Arm Shelf

Along with the headrest, most therapists prefer a forward arm shelf. A massage stool can double as a temporary arm shelf, but it is less professional and less convenient than a forward arm rest. A massage stool used as an arm rest can also get in the way as you move around the table.

Side Arm Extenders

Side extenders come in handy for wider clients.

Package Deals

For the best deal, look for a massage table package that includes all of the basic accessories that you need. It’s generally cheaper than buying all of your accessories separately.

For more information on massage table features, see the Buying a Massage Table Series.

A rolling massage stool allows freedom of movement and flexibility.

1. Do you want to be able to move around the massage table?

If so, a rolling stool is your best option.

2. Do you need a massage stool for a knee rest, or do you plan to use the stool to kneel on?

Choose a stationary, folding massage stool.

3. Do you use the stool for leverage or as a stable support?

Use a stationary stool to support your body weight without rolling away.

4. Do you need to transport your massage stool?

A folding stool is more compact and weighs a few less pounds than a rolling stool, although either massage stool is easily portable. The OneTouch Massage Folding Stool weighs in at a mere 5 pounds, while the Pneumatic Rolling Stool weighs only 8-1/2 pounds.



A folding wood massage stool provides stable support and portability.

5. Do you want to be able to adjust the height of the stool?

A pneumatic stool will adjust at the touch of a lever.

6. Do you want assurance that the stool won’t roll out from under you as you sit down?

Choose a stationary stool for peace of mind.

7. Want the best of both worlds?

Consider purchasing both a stationary and a rolling massage stool for the ultimate convenience and flexibility in your office and mobile massage equipment.

Thumb Helper Massage Tool

Using massage tools is a smart way to save your hands, and the fact is that when you use these tools effectively, your clients won’t even know the difference between the feel of your fingers, your knuckles, and a thumb helper or T-bar tool.

Hand Helper Massage Tool

With practice, you will become more sensitive to the tissue’s response, even through the medium of the massage tool. The more skilled you become in using massage tools, the more they will become simply an extension of your own hands.

Your hands are your greatest asset as a massage therapist. If you work them too hard, you may just work yourself out of a job! Reduce the strain on your hands by using your elbows, knuckles, and massage tools for deeper strokes and trigger point work, or even for traditional Swedish massage techniques.

Full-time massage work places strenuous demands on your hands and body. Massage tools are just one way you can keep up with the pace of your work without compromising the health and strength of your body.

Wondering how you can accommodate obese clients in your massage practice? Here are a few suggestions for modifying your massage techniques and adjusting your massage table for obese clients.

Save your hands! Use a massage tool for deeper strokes.

1. Set the massage table height lower.
   You probably have your massage table set at a “standard” height that works well for most of your clients. With thicker clients, however, you may need to adjust the massage table a few notches lower.
   a

   Don’t sacrifice your body mechanics or risk injury with a table height that forces you to stretch beyond your comfort zone or stand on your tiptoes. Stand on a folding massage stool if you need to (not a rolling one!).

a
2. Use side arm extenders.
   Massage table side extensions are a lifesaver for therapists. They increase the comfort of wider clients without sacrificing the width of the table required for safe ergonomics. Side extenders can easily be added when you need them and removed when you don’t need them.
a
3. Use massage tools for deeper access.
   The extra effort needed to massage thicker clients can easily fatigue your thumbs and fingers. Use your elbows and forearms as much as possible to take the strain off of your hands. Massage tools, such as a thumb helper, hand helper, or T-bar, also help you massage deeper without straining your hands. Don’t be afraid to use them as needed. Most clients can’t tell the difference between the touch of your fingers and the touch of a massage tool.
a
4. Consider floor work.
   Don’t exceed the static weight capacity or working weight capacity of your massage table. If a client exceeds the weight capacity of your table, suggest Thai massage or other form of floor massage. Both you and your client can fully relax without any nagging fears that the massage table will collapse, and working on the floor will give you better leverage and more options for positioning.

Use a rolling massage stool
to rest your back and legs.

A pneumatic massage stool helps cut down on repetitive movement by “mixing things up.” Instead of constantly using the same movements and positioning, you can give your body some variety by sitting down while you massage your client’s hands, feet, and head.

Your body reacts differently when you massage from a sitting position versus a standing position. Sitting allows your back and legs to rest while you continue to massage your clients. You may even find that you experience less soreness and have more energy at the end of a full workday when you use a combination of sitting and standing.

With a quick-adjust lever, you can easily raise or lower the pneumatic stool without breaking the momentum of the massage, and with the rollers on the bottom, you can move around the massage table with ease.

Give your body a break with an adjustable massage stool! Find one here.

Massage Table Warmer Pad

The more comfortable your clients are, the easier it will be for them to relax. Plus, the more you can increase client satisfaction, the more loyal your clients will be to your services.

Most massage table warmers come with an auto-shutoff feature that prevents the pad from overheating, protects your clients from exposure to burning hot temps, and reduces the risk of an accident or fire if you forget to turn off the heating pad.

For the best results, turn the table warmer on a few minutes before the client arrives. This will allow the pad to warm up before the massage. Adjust the temperature to a low setting. When the client is settled on the table, ask if he or she is warm enough and adjust the temperature as requested.

The massage table warmer not only provides warmth, but it also adds an extra level of comfort to the massage by adding a thin layer of padding to the massage table. The warmth and comfort will encourage your clients to sink into a deeper state of relaxation as you massage away their aches and pains.

Keep your hot towel cabi looking sharp with these care and maintenance tips.

On a daily basis after use:

1. Turn off the power switch. Do not leave the towel warmer turned on overnight.
2. Remove any towels remaining in the cabinet. Towels left in the cabinet overnight may promote the growth of mildew.
3. Dry the inside of the cabinet with a clean towel.
4. Empty the drip tray.
5. Leave the cabinet door open, allowing the interior to dry completely.

On a weekly basis:

1. Wipe down the hot towel cabinet exterior with a neutral cleaning solution. Avoid using acidic or alkaline products or cleaning agents that may be toxic or corrosive.
2. Wipe down the inside of the towel cabinet with a non-abrasive, antimicrobial cleaning solution.
3. Clean the drip tray with hot water and soap to prevent the growth of microbes or fungus.
4. Wipe down and sanitize the metal towel trays inside the cabinet.

Bolster pillows are more than just a decorative, cylindrical-shaped throw pillow. Using a bolster pillow during massage is an easy way to enhance your client’s experience. There are three purposes to the use of a bolster pillow: comfort, safety, and to aid in body positioning for increased accessibility by the massage therapist.

Bolster pillows can be used for comfort mainly by relieving pressure on one part of the body. For instance, when a client is in the supine position (lying on their back), placing a bolster under the knees will relieve pressure on the lower back. A bolster pillow can also be placed under the ankles to avoid cramps in the calves.

Safety comes into play when certain medical conditions are present. Two examples are pregnancy and asthma. When a pregnant woman is in the supine position, it is important to keep her in a semi-reclining position. This can be achieved by using bolster pillows to cushion her back. Some clients that are asthmatic cannot lie totally flat. Bolstering is one way of helping them find a comfortable position while they are being massaged.

There are some muscles that are hard to access without the use of a bolster pillow. The posterior deltoids are a very good example of this. If a bolster is placed under the upper arm when the client is in the prone position, this will relax those muscles. This will also help with compression techniques and will make it easier to lift the arm.

The only problem is that every client is not the same. This means that using a bolster for one person may not be right for another, or that a differently shaped bolster pillow would be more appropriate for one client than another. Each client must be individually evaluated first to determine what will be the most effective use of a bolster pillow, if any. For this reason it is a good idea to have several bolsters on hand to aid in any situation that may present itself to you.