Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Introduction Equipment Tables, Massage Chairs, and Massage Mats Accessory Equipment Lubricants Draping Environment Hygiene, Sanitation, and Safety Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Equipment Equipment Specifications Price: weigh cost versus what’s best for career Comfort: should enhance client’s experience Strength and stability: static versus dynamic loading Dynamic loading most helpful to determine “working weight” of table since weight is unevenly distributed on table. Warranty: company’s willingness to stand behind the products and replace and repair is critical Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Table Tabletop Dimensions Most common shape is a rectangle Wider may be more comfortable but harder to work with Consider breast-recess option Padding Choice of foam may depend on need for ease of portability Table support Adjustable height (electric versus manual) Check bolt tightness on a regular basis Stability of the table is reinforced with bracing, to keep the table from collapsing Stationary Solid, stable Very sturdy, heavy Not designed to be moved Portable Designed for transport Highly recommend carrying case Need to practice setup and takedown Hinge that spans the width of the table provides greater stability Proper Table Height Middle of thigh or knuckles of index finger Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Massage Chair Designed for fully clothed client Very portable No privacy issue Can be used as marketing and promotional item Limits access to clients’ bodies Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Massage Mat Inexpensive alternative Variation of the massage mat is set of cushions called body cushions, body-support systems, or body-positioning cushions May be difficult to disinfect table or floor that supports the cushion May be unpleasant to lie on May have difficulty accessing client’s body Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Accessory Equipment Bolsters Pillow like cushion for additional support for client’s body Can be manufactured bolster or rolled-up towel Face cradle Puts neck in neutral position Allows clients to still breathe through their noses and mouths Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Accessory Equipment Bolsters Pillow-like cushion for additional support Manufactured bolster Easily disinfected Rolled-up towel Face cradle Puts neck in neutral position Allows clients to still breathe through their noses and mouths Table extensions Beneficial for clients who are tall or wide or whose arms rest in an abducted position Options include footrests, arm shelves Massage tools Minimize the physical stress of giving a massage Stools and rolling chairs can relieve stress from standing Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Lubricants Reduce friction between therapist’s skin and client’s skin Increase the comfort of the massage strokes and enables various techniques Considerations How much slip they provide How long they stay slippery on the skin How much to use Ease of dispensing Cost Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Types of Lubricants Oils Oil spreads easily and useful for clients with a lot of body hair Natural sources preferred (fruits, vegetables - safest, nuts) Mineral oil can irritate skin, may increase cancer risk Lanolin is controversial Oils breakdown when exposed to light, heat and air Lotions, creams, gels Alternative to water- or oil-based products One-handed dispensing (except for thick ones) Thick ones prevent spill Powders Can allow deep pressure without slipping Cornstarch may be best choice for powder and safest Talcum powder is not recommended due to health risks Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Lubricant Storage Sanitary concerns Storage a. Use large bottle for main supply b. Use small dispenser for active usage (no client contact) Avoiding contamination a. Fill small dispenser from larger supply container directly or with disinfected tool (spoon or scoop) b. Be aware of risk for cross-contamination Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Lubricant Application Etiquette Do not pour directly onto client’s skin “Less is more” Considerations Avoid breaking contact with client’s skin Spread thinly and evenly Place containers in strategic locations around the room for easy access Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Draping Keeps client covered Protects modesty of clients Keeps client warm and comfortable Can be done with sheets, blankets, pillowcases, towels, or combinations Sheets and towels most common Need to practice with different clients to develop draping techniques that will coincide with the flow of massage session Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Environment Equipment, lubricant, and draping contribute to the massage environment Location also affects the environment Sensory input like lighting and smells affects the environment of one’s practice Standard precautions: specific procedures that maintain a hygienic and sanitary practice Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Location Considerations: Practicing in your own home Practicing in an office outside of home Traveling to clients (outcalls) Taking a massage chair to public venues Working outdoors at sporting events Traveling with competitive teams Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Treatment Room Atmosphere Privacy Step out while clients undress Keep treatment-room door unlocked Visual input Display diplomas, certifications Choose pleasant décor and furnishings Dim lights during massage and brighter lights during interviews and assessments Auditory input Sounds can affect brain-wave activity, heartbeat, breathing rate, and blood pressure 60 beats per minute relax client and aid in clarity of mind Music serves three purposes a. Drowns out unavoidable noises b. Promotes relaxation c. Guides timing of massage flow Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Treatment Room Atmosphere Olfactory input Smells can affect a person’s response to the environment Be aware of any unpleasant odors Ask client about allergies before using scents Aromatherapy can induce varied physiological responses Tactile sensations Sheets a. Consider high–thread count sheets b. Sheets should not be see-through Massage therapist’s skin a. Hands should be clean and dry b. Avoid cold hands, or at least inform the client Room temperature a. Room should be warm and comfortable (72–74 degrees) b. Allow fresh air if feasible Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Hygiene and Safety Pathogen – a germ or pathogenic microorganism that can cause a disease in other organisms Disease Noninfectious a. Several categories from cancer to nutritional b. Can help client manage (e.g., environment, nutrition) noninfectious diseases Infectious a. Transmitted by i. Contact transmission (direct, indirect, droplets) ii. Vehicle transmission (air, food, liquid) iii. Vector transmission (insects, animals) Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Preventing Transmission of Pathogens Proper hand hygiene Hand washing is the most important procedure to prevent infection according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Wash hands immediately before and after each client Alcohol based hand rubs are suitable substitute for soap and water Barrier techniques Physical protective barriers: gloves, gowns, aprons, masks, and protective eyewear Latex gloves can help reduce risk of pathogen transmission Proper cleaning and sanitizing Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces Disinfectants need to stay on bodily fluids for 20 minutes Clean equipment after every client Adhere to guidelines for levels of infection control Proper disposal techniques Launder linens after every use in 160 degree water for at least 25 minutes Clean sheets should be stored in a clean and dry area Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Safety Keep up-to-date certification in first-aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation First aid kit should be on the premises Inspect all aspects of business Parking lots, stairs, doors, and so on Fire safety Watch candles carefully Avoid overloading electrical outlets Know fire procedures Other considerations for safety: Primary assessment in an emergency situation Artificial respiration Cardiopulmonary resuscitation Choking Weather-related conditions Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University

Spa Vargas University MT101 Introduction to Massage Therapy Chapter 8: Equipment, Environment, Sanitation, and Safety Summary Equipment and environment are important decisions for your practice Spend time looking over equipment options Try various lubricants and draping methods as appropriate (expand horizons) Treatment-room atmosphere is critical to client’s overall experience, comfort, and safety Copyright © 2010 Spa Vargas University