Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations �5^th ed �©LauraAllen 2024

A Positive Approach

MBLEx

• The ONLY exam available to you for entry-level licensing in NC is the MBLEx. If you are getting licensed in a different state, that may not be the case. A list of states that accept the MBLEx are found at www.fsmtb.org.

• Keep a detailed calendar for a week to see how much time you are wasting (which does not mean actual downtime).
• Schedule your study time as a daily obligation. Set a reasonable amount of time, at least ½ hour.
• Use mnemonics or other word-association games to help memorize difficult material.
• Organize or join a study group.

​

​

​

​

• Write the words you are having a problem with and their definitions six times.
• Check out videos and other study materials from your massage school’s or public library.
• Stand in front of a full-length mirror, naming the muscles as you touch each one.

​

• Use a grease pencil to draw the muscles or label the bones on a study partner.
• Don’t try to multi-task while studying; give it your full attention for your allotted period of time.
• Get up earlier or go to bed later to make time to study.
• Remember that repetition is the key to memorization.

​

​

​

• Get an appointment with therapists who practice different modalities and ask them about what they do.
• Use videos, audio, the Internet, flash cards, and any materials you can to make studying more interesting.
• Do cross-crawl exercises to stimulate your brain.
• Remember to breathe deeply.

​

​

• If you have school-age children, study with them.
• Go to the park or a coffee shop to study if your household is too noisy or distracting.
• Read every possible answer before choosing one.
• Send in your test application immediately upon graduation or before.
• Take the full amount of time allotted to take the exam.
• Read the test questions very carefully.

​

​

Take Frequent Doggy Breaks

• Give yourself a break and don’t study the day before the test; do something fun and stress-relieving instead.

​

GET A MASSAGE!

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

A Positive Approach

A Positive Approach

• Practice positive thinking with the use of affirmations.
• Avoid procrastination and making excuses.
• Adopt clear strategies for releasing stress.
• Make studying a priority.
• Don’t obsess on past failures.

​

​

​

​

​

A Few Facts About the Exam

• It is given in a nice, quiet room.
• It is all multiple choice in format.
• You may NOT save questions and come back to them later.
• You will find out immediately whether you pass or fail.
• Your score report reflects how you did on each area of content.

​

​

​

​

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

Coverage on the Exam

Breakdown of the MBLEx

Breakdown of the MBLEx

Computer Adaptive Testing

Three Cognitive Levels

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

An Overview of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology

An Overview of Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology

​

Subdisciplines of Anatomy

• Cytology
• Histology
• Developmental anatomy
• Embryology
• Gross anatomy
• Pathological anatomy
• Radiographic anatomy
• Surface anatomy
• Systemic anatomy

​

An Overview of Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology

​

Subdisciplines of Physiology

• Neurophysiology
• Cell physiology
• Exercise physiology

​

An Overview of Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology

​

Organization of the Body

• Cells form tissue
• Tissues form organs
• Organs form organ systems
• Organ systems combine to form the organism

An Overview of Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology

Cavities of the Body

• Abdominal
• Abdominopelvic
• Thoracic
• Pericardial
• Ventral
• Cranial
• Spinal
• Dorsal

​

An Overview of Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology

​

Planes of the Body

• Frontal/coronal
• Sagittal
• Midsagittal
• Transverse/horizontal

An Overview of Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology

​

Directional Terminology

• Anatomical position
• Anterior/ventral
• Posterior/dorsal
• Caudal/inferior (toward the tail)
• Cephalad/cranial (toward the head)

An Overview of Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology

​

• Distal
• Proximal
• Lateral
• Medial
• Deep
• Superficial

An Overview of Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology

• Chemistry
• Cellular
• Integumentary
• Skeletal
• Muscular
• Nervous
• Brain & Spinal Cord

​

• Endocrine
• Cardiovascular
• Lymphatic
• Respiratory
• Digestive
• Urinary
• Reproductive

An Overview of Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology

​

​

Subdisciplines of Pathology

• Anatomic pathology
• Clinical pathology
• Pathophysiology

An Overview of Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology

General terminology of pathology

• Acute
• Chronic
• Degenerative (progressive)
• Disease
• Infection
• Local
• Systemic

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

Basic Medical Terminology

Basic Medical Terminology

• Prefix + Root + Suffix
• Prefix usually describes direction, location, amount or other qualification.
• Root word describes usual meaning of word.
• Suffix alters the meaning of the root word.
• Memorizing the separate parts is easiest.

​

​

Other terminology to know

• The terminology of general health
• The terminology of surgery
• The terminology of biomechanics and kinesiology
• The terminology of massage and bodywork
• The terminology of professional ethics
• The terminology of business
• The terminology of research

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Chemistry of the Body

The Chemistry of the Body

• 26 elements occur in the human body.
• Elements are composed of atoms.
• Oxygen, carbon, hydrogen and nitrogen make up 96% of the body’s mass.
• Calcium, chlorine, iodine, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and sulfur make up 3.9%.
• Remaining 0.1% trace elements.

​

​

​

The Chemistry of the Body

• Ions
• Compounds
• Electrolytes
• pH scale
• Acid or base

The Chemistry of the Body

Pathology from Chemical Imbalances

​

• Free radicals
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Mineral over-absorption or under-absorption

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Cellular Level of the Body

The Cellular Level of the Body

• Cells are the smallest form of life that can be sustained independently.
• Cytology is the study of the structures and functions of cells.
• Cell physiology is the study of the functions of cells.
• The plasma membrane is the barrier of cells--selectively permeable.
• The nucleus is the control center of the cell.

​

The Cellular Level of the Body

• Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the body’s “energy currency.”
• Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) are the genetic instructions contained in the cell.
• Genes are present in the DNA and control the structure and function of the cells.
• Chromosomes contain the genetic material in cells.

​

The Cellular Level of the Body

• Ribonucleic acid (RNA) aids in the transfer of genetic information.
• The genome is the total of genes in an individual cell, containing 23 pairs of chromosomes.
• Diploid cells contain a full set of paired chromosomes.
• Haploid cells contain a single set of unpaired chromosomes.
• Cells strive to stay in equilibrium.

​

​

​

​

Cellular Pathology

​

• Changes in DNA cause birth (congenital) defects.
• Dominant inheritance is a genetic disease caused by one parent passing along an abnormal gene.
• Recessive inheritance is a genetic disease caused by two parents passing along an abnormal gene.
• Non-inherited diseases may be the result of DNA mutation.

​

e

Cellular Pathology

Common Diseases Resulting from Cellular Abnormalities

• Duchenne muscular dystrophy
• Cystic fibrosis
• Sickle cell anemia
• Tay-Sachs disease
• Congenital deafness

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Integumentary System

The Integumentary System

• “Integument” means “covering”

Structures of the integumentary system:

• Skin
• Hair (an accessory structure)
• Nails (an accessory structure)
• Various glands, muscles, mucus membranes and nerves are supporting structures.

​

The Integumentary System

• Skin has two main parts, the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (inner layer).
• The epidermis has four distinct layers.
• The dermis is made of three types of connective tissue.
• The hypodermis is under the dermis and contains adipose tissue (fat) and larger blood vessels supply the skin.

​

​

​

​

​

The Integumentary System

• Melanin colors the skin and protects against ultraviolet rays of the sun.
• Langerhans cells are the skin’s immune defense
• Merkel’s cells are tactile cells
• Keratin protects the skin from sun and pollutants.
• Lammelar granules waterproof the skin.

​

The Integumentary System

• Sebaceous glands are oil glands of the skin.
• Apocrine and eccrine glands are the sweat glands of the skin.
• Elastin gives skin its elastic properties.
• Arrector pilli are tiny muscles that contract in cold or due to emotional stimuli—”goose bumps.”
• Dermatology is the study of skin and is also a medical specialty dealing with disorders of the skin.

​

​

​

Pathology of the integumentary system

Skin lesions

• Primary lesions (principal lesions)
• Secondary lesions (occur in later stages of trauma or disease)

​

The Integumentary System

Burns are classified according to depth of damage.

• First degree involves outer layer of skin.
• Second degree penetrates deeper and involves blistering.
• Third degree invades full depth of skin and may affect underlying muscle and tissue.

The Integumentary System

• Common Diseases of the Integumentary System
• Acne
• Basal cell carcinoma
• Dermatitis
• Eczema
• Malignant melanoma
• Psoriasis
• Rosacea
• Tinea

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Skeletal System

The Skeletal System

• Osteology is the study of the skeletal system.
• Orthopedics is the branch of medicine concerned with the skeletal system.
• Bones have two types of cells, osteocytes and osteoblasts. Osteocytes release stored minerals from the bones and break down bones to remove unneeded tissue.
• Osteoblasts build and repair bone.

The Skeletal System

The Skeletal System

Axial skeleton:

• Skull
• Hyoid
• Thoracic bones
• Vertebral column

​

Appendicular skeleton:

• Shoulders
• Hips
• Arms
• Hands
• Legs
• Feet

​

The Skeletal System

• Bones are classified by shape:
• Short bones (like phalanges)
• Long bones (like the femur)
• Irregular bones (like the hyoid and vertebrae)
• Sesamoid bones (like the kneecap)
• Cuboid bones (like the distal tarsus)

The Skeletal System

• Joints are classified by movement.
• Synarthrotic (also called fibrous joints) don’t move (like the skull)
• Amphiarthrotic have limited movement (like the pubic bone and sacroiliac)
• Diarthrotic (also called synovial joints) are freely moveable (like the hip)

The Skeletal System

Types of Joints

• Ball and socket (hip, shoulder)
• Condyloid (metacarpophalangeal)
• Hinge (elbow, knee)
• Gliding (intercarpals, intertarsals)
• Ellipsoid (wrist, atlas-occipital)
• Pivot (atlantoaxial)

The Skeletal System

Levers are classified according to the position of the fulcrum (joint), the effort required to move, and the resistance encountered.

The three types of levers:

• First class (the head on the vertebral column).
• Second class (the ball of the foot).
• Third class (the elbow joint).

The Skeletal System

• There are 206 bones in the body.
• Bony landmarks are features on bones, such as ridges, projections, notches, arches, depressions, grooves, and cavities.
• There are more than 20 types of bony landmarks.

�Pathology of the Skeletal System�

Conditions that are unique to the spine:

• Kyphosis: posterior curvature of thoracic spine (hunchback)
• Lordosis: anterior curvature of lumbar area (swayback)
• Lordoscoliosis: combo of posterior curvature of lumbar area and lateral curvature
• Scoliosis: lateral curvature of the spine
• Herniated disc

​

​

The Skeletal System

• Bone Injuries
• Dislocation
• Subluxation
• Compound fracture
• Closed fracture

​

The Skeletal System

• Chronic conditions affecting bones may be aggravated by injury.
• Chronic conditions affecting bones may limit mobility and make more prone to injury.
• Most chronic conditions involve intermittent periods of inflammation and bone and/or joint degeneration.

​

​

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Muscular System

The Muscular System

• Myology is the study of the muscular system.
• Muscles are named according to their characteristics such as shape, location, action, direction, or relative size.
• Skeletal: (striated) voluntary muscles
• Smooth: involuntary muscles
• Cardiac: only in the heart

​

The Muscular System

• There are approximately 630 active muscles in the body.
• The two actions of muscles are to contract and to relax.
• Muscle attaches to stationary bone at the origin, which is proximal to the trunk.
• Muscle attaches to moving bone at the insertion, which is distal to the trunk.
• The belly is the mid-portion of the muscle.

​

​

The Muscular System

• Agonist, or prime mover, is the main muscle performing an action.
• Synergist helps the agonist by stabilizing joints to aid in movement or to prevent unwanted movement.
• Antagonist is the opposing muscle.

​

The Muscular System

• Muscle is surrounded by fascia (connective tissue)

​

• Superficial fascia separates muscles from skin
• Adipose fascia helps protect and regulate temperature

​

The Muscular System

Five Characteristics of Muscle Functions:

• Electrical excitability
• Contractility
• Extensability
• Elasticity
• All-or-none response

The Muscular System

Muscle Movements:

​

• Abduction
• Adduction
• Depression
• Elevation
• Extension
• Flexion
• Pronation
• Supination
• Tension

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Pathology of the Muscular System

​

• Myopathy refers to muscle disease or dysfunction
• Trauma caused by injury such as sprains and strain
• Ischemia due to lack of oxygen
• Nerve problems such as impingements
• Genetic conditions such as dystrophies
• Chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia or arthritis
• Inflammation due to overuse

​

Pathology of the Muscular System

Trigger Points (OR, THE PHENOMENON FORMERLY KNOWN AS TRIGGER POINTS!)

• Tender areas
• Hyperirritable
• Sensations referred to another area distant from the sorest point, known as spillover zone
• Often accompanies chronic conditions

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Nervous System

The Nervous System

• Central Nervous System (CNS)
• Brain
• Spinal Cord

​

The Nervous System

• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)
• All outlying nervous tissue
• Cranial nerves
• Spinal nerves
• Sensory receptors
• Divided into plexuses
• Subdivided into somatic nervous system and autonomic nervous system

The Nervous System

• Somatic nervous system controls skeletal muscle contractions
• Autonomic nervous system regulates smooth muscles, cardiac muscle, internal organs, glands, and the enteric nervous system
• Autonomic nervous system subdivided into sympathetic and parasympathetic systems
• Enteric nervous system controls gastrointestinal tract

​

The Nervous System

• Sympathetic nervous system prepares body for “fight or flight”
• Parasympathetic nervous system prepares body for “rest and digest”
• Nervous tissue composed of neurons (nerve cells) and glia (electrical insulators)
• Dendrites receive incoming nerve impulses
• Axons carry nerve impulses away from the neuron

​

The Nervous System

• Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers
• Acetycholine
• Serotonin
• Norepinephrine
• Dopamine
• Composed of amino acids bonded together, called neuropeptides (1-40)

The Nervous System

Sensory (afferent) neurons

• Long dendrite
• Short axon
• Carry messages from sensory receptors to CNS

Motor (efferent) neurons

• Short dendrite
• Long axon
• Carry messages from CNS to muscles or glands

​

​

The Nervous System

​

Sensory neurons

• Touch
• Taste
• Smell
• Sight
• Hearing

​

Interneurons transmit messages

only between neurons.

​

​

The Nervous System

• Receptors
• Photoreceptors
• Nociceptors
• Thermoceptors
• Proprioceptors
• Joint kinesthetic receptors

The Nervous System

• Neurology is the study of the nervous system and its disorders
• The principle of the nervous system is that “there is a reflex for every stimulus”
• Reflex arc is the route through the nervous system connecting the receptor and an effector

Pathology of the Nervous System (Neuropathology)�

The pathology associated with the central nervous system is different from that associated with the peripheral nervous system.

�Pathology of the Central Nervous System�

​

​

​

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Aneurysm
• Cerebral palsy
• Dementia
• Encephalitis
• Epilepsy
• Parkinson’s
• Paralysis
• Schizophrenia
• Stroke

Pathology of the Peripheral Nervous System

• Bell’s palsy
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Herpes Simplex
• Multiple sclerosis
• Sciatica
• Shingles
• Vertigo

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

The Brain & Spinal Cord

The Brain and Spinal Cord

The Brain

• Brainstem
• Cerebellum
• Diencephalon
• Cerebrum
• The brainstem is lowest part of brain and integrates with spinal cord.

​

​

The Brain and Spinal Cord

• Medulla oblongata regulates cardiac and respiratory functions.
• Midbrain regulates unconscious body functions.
• Pons contains respiratory control center.

The Brain and Spinal Cord

• The cerebellum helps maintain balance.
• The diencephalon relays information about sensation and motion and is thought to be involved in emotion.
• The cerebrum processes thought and higher reasoning
• Cerebrum divided into equal left and right hemispheres

​

​

​

The Brain and Spinal Cord

The brain is divided into four lobes separated by deep grooves (sulci)

• Frontal
• Parietal
• Temporal
• Occipital

The Brain and Spinal Cord

Sensory Areas of the Brain

• Visual
• Auditory
• Gustatory
• Olfactory
• Somatosensory (touch, temperature, proprioception)

Motor Areas of the Brain

• Primary motor area
• Broca’s speech area

​

The Brain and Spinal Cord

• Association Areas of the Brain
• Include some motor and sensory areas
• Somatosensory association area
• Visual association area
• Auditory association area
• Wernicke’s area
• Common Integrative Area (CIA) receives and assimilates information from all areas
• 12 pairs of cranial nerves arise from underside of brain

​

The Brain and Spinal Cord

Limbic system

• Hippocampus
• Amygdala
• Fornicate gyrus
• Is the mood center of the brain and involved in regulation of the endocrine system and autonomic nervous system

The Brain and Spinal Cord

The spinal cord extends from the medulla oblongata to the second lumbar vertebra

• 31 pairs of nerves arise from spinal cord
• 8 pairs cervical nerves
• 12 pairs thoracic nerves
• 5 pairs lumbar nerves
• 5 pairs sacral nerves
• 1 pair coccygeal nerves

​

�Pathology of the Brain and Spinal Cord�

Subject to pathologies that are not caused or related directly to the nervous system

​

• Autism
• Coma
• Delirium
• Down syndrome
• Sleep disturbances such as apnea, insomnia, anrcolepsy
• Spina bifida

The Craniosacral System

• Structures of the Craniosacral System
• Meninges, the three-layered membrane system covering the spinal cord, also called dural membrane
• Ventricles of the brain where cerebrospinal fluid is produced
• Cerebrospinal fluid
• Nerves controlling the parasympathetic nervous system

The Craniosacral System

• Meninges
• Pia mater (delicate mother) innermost layer
• Arachnoid (like a spider web) middle layer
• Dura mater (tough mother) outermost layer, further divided into two layers
• Periosteal layer
• Meningeal layer

The Craniosacral System

• Craniosacral rhythm is the rise and fall of the craniosacral fluid.
• Craniosacral bodywork is aimed at releasing constrictions in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which medical science does not support. Craniosacral therapists claim that the head sutures move, which medical science also does not support.

​

Plain and Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Endocrine System

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Endocrine System

The Endocrine System

• Endocrinology is the study of the endocrine system and its related diseases.
• Structures include glands and other hormone-producing organs such as kidneys and the stomach (overlapping systems).
• Hormones are chemical messengers and sometimes also function as neurotransmitters.

​

The Endocrine System

Pituitary Gland

• Referred to as the “master gland”.
• Divided into two lobes.
• Anterior lobe produces human growth hormone (HGH) and regulates thyroid, reproductive glands and adrenal glands.
• Posterior lobe controls balance of water in body by releasing antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and releases oxytocin, which causes uterine contractions during labor.

The Endocrine System

Adrenal Glands

• One located on top of each kidney.
• Divided into adrenal cortex (outer part) and adrenal medulla (inner part).
• Adrenal cortex produces corticosteroids which maintain water balance, aid immune system and metabolism.
• Adrenal medulla produces produces catecholamines, including adrenaline.

​

The Endocrine System

Pineal Gland

• Produces melatonin which regulates sleep.
• Produces other hormones including serotonin, dopamine, histamine, and norepinephrine.

The Endocrine System

Gonads

• Produce sex hormones that cause secondary sex characteristics at puberty and allow reproduction.
• Ovaries in females produce estrogen and progesterone.
• Testes in males produce testosterone.

The Endocrine System

Thyroid Gland

• Controls the body’s metabolism by regulating the rate that the body turns fuel into energy.
• Four parathyroid glands are attached to thyroid.
• Regulate calcium levels in the blood

The Endocrine System

Pancreas

• Secretes insulin, somatostatin and glucagon.
• Regulates the body’s blood sugar.
• Regulates metabolism of body’s fat and protein metabolism.
• Somatostatin inhibits gastric secretions and motility in the GI (gastrointestinal) tract.

The Endocrine System

Thymus Gland

• Important to the body’s immune system.
• Secretes substances that differentiate T cells, important lymphocytes, and other cells.

The Endocrine System

Tissue hormones are secreted by other tissues in the body.

• Histamines cause local immune response.
• Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) releases excess sodium through the urine.
• Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) stimulates bone and cartilage growth.
• Gastrointestinal hormones regulate digestive secretions.

​

​

The Endocrine System

General Adaptation Syndrome (Stress Response)

• Series of changes occur in the body when under stress.
• Hormones released or inhibited depending on stressor.

Pathology of the Endocrine System

• Hypersecretion = excessive production of hormones.
• Hyposecretion = insufficient production of hormones.
• Either causes an abnormal metabolic response that creates a pathological condition.

The Endocrine System

Endocrine Disorders and Diseases

​

• Cushing’s disease
• Diabetes
• Dwarfism
• Gigantism
• Glycemic conditions
• Goiter
• Graves’ disease
• Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

​

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Cardiovascular System

The Cardiovascular System

• Cardiology is the study of the cardiovascular system and its diseases
• Blood transports gases, nutrients and hormones through the body, and
• Regulates the body’s pH
• Regulates amount of fluid in tissues
• Assists in regulating body temperature
• Protects against pathogens

The Cardiovascular System

Composition of Blood

• 55% plasma (90% of which is water, 8% proteins, 2% salts and acids)
• 40-50% erythrocytes (red blood cells)
• Remainder is leukocytes (white blood cells, body’s main line of immune defense)

The Cardiovascular System

Blood Types

• 8 blood types, classified according to absence or presence of ABO antigens, proteins that produce specific immune responses in the body

A+ A-

B+ B-

AB+ AB-

O+ O-

​

The Cardiovascular System

The Heart

• Divided into four chambers (left and right atria, left and right ventricles)
• Ventricles divided by interventricular septum
• Atria divided by interatrial septum
• Right side pumps blood into pulmonary circulation
• Left side pumps blood into systemic circulation

The Cardiovascular System

Heart Valves

• Bicuspid (mitral) valve divides left atrium from left ventricle
• Tricuspid valve divides right atrium from right ventricle
• Both referred to as atrioventricular valves
• Aortic semilunar valve separates left ventricle from aorta
• Pulmonary semilunar valve separates right ventricle from pulmonary trunk

​

The Cardiovascular System

Blood Vessels

• Arteries
• Arterioles
• Capillaries (smallest vessel carrying oxygenated blood)
• Venules
• Veins

​

The Cardiovascular System

Great vessels are located superior to the aortic arch

• Carotid artery
• Subclavian artery
• Brachiocephalic artery
• Right and left brachiocephalic veins

The Cardiovascular System

• Aorta is the largest artery.
• Superior vena cava is major vein draining thorax and head.
• Inferior vena cava is large venous trunk draining lower extremities and abdominopelvic area.
• Pulmonary veins (right and left) carry oxygenated blood from lungs to left atrium.

The Cardiovascular System

Measurements

• Cardiac output measures volume of blood ejected from heart
• Cardiac cycle is complete sequence of heart actions
• Systole is contraction phase of cardiac cycle
• Diastole is interval between contractions
• Blood pressure is force that circulating blood exerts on artery walls
• Heart rate (pulse) refers to number of beats per minute

​

The Cardiovascular System

• Sinoatrial (SA) node referred to as pacemaker of the heart, controls the tissue that dictates heart rate

​

• Atrioventricular (AV) node conducts electrical impulses between atria and ventricles

​

Pathology of the Cardiovascular System

• Heart attacks kill more then one million people yearly.
• Heart disease is the number one killer of women.
• Risk factors are cigarette smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, sedentary lifestyle, drug and/or alcohol abuse, and genetic predisposition.

Pathology of the Cardiovascular System

Common Cardiovascular Pathologies�

• Anaphylactic shock
• Anemia
• Angina
• Cardiac arrest
• Congestive heart failure
• Coronary artery disease
• Edema

The Cardiovascular System

• Embolus
• Hemophilia
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Leukemia
• Myocardial infarction
• Phlebitis
• Varicose Veins

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Lymphatic and Immune Systems

The Lymphatic and Immune Systems

• Structures of the lymphatic system are lymph (interstitial fluid or plasma), lymphatic vessels, and structures that house lymphatic tissue.
• There are approximately 600 lymph nodes in the body.
• Lymphocytes are white blood cells that fight infection.

​

The Lymphatic and Immune Systems

The lymphatic system performs three basic functions:

• Drains excess interstitial fluid through lymph vessels
• Transports lipids and vitamins
• Protects the body through immune responses

​

The Lymphatic and Immune Systems

Major Lymph Nodes and Locations

• Axillary (under arm)
• Cubital (elbow)
• Deep cervical (deep neck)
• Superficial cervical (superficial neck)
• Deep inguinal (deep groin)
• Superficial inguinal (superficial groin)
• Facial (medial angle of eye)

​

The Lymphatic and Immune Systems

• Femoral (femur)
• Hypogastric (lower abdomen)
• Mediastinal (behind sternum)
• Mesenteric (abdominal membrane)
• Occipital (back of head)
• Para-aortic (below diaphragm)
• Parotid (front of ear)

The Lymphatic and Immune Systems

• Popliteal (back of knee)
• Subclavicular (under clavicle)
• Submandibular (under mandible)
• Supratrochlear (above eye)
• Tibial (tibia)

The Lymphatic and Immune Systems

• Lymphatic organs are divided into primary and secondary organs.
• Primary organs are red blood cells and thymus gland, provide growing environment for T and B cells.
• Secondary organs are lymph nodes, lymphatic nodules and the spleen
• Most important function is protection from invaders

​

Pathology of the Lymphatic and Immune Systems

Specific immunity vs. non-specific immunity

• Diseases caused by dysfunction in immune system
• Some genetic conditions caused by failure of immune system
• Autoimmune disorders
• Remember it is impossible to give a massage without affecting the lymphatic system, so contraindications are extremely important

​

�Common Immune System Pathologies�

​

• Acute lymphoblastic leukemia
• Acute myeloblastic leukemia
• AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)
• Allergies
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Epstein-Barr virus
• Fever

​

The Lymphatic and Immune Systems

• Hodgkin’s disease
• Lymphoma
• Mononucleosis
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus)

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Respiratory System

The Respiratory System

Study of the respiratory system has two specialties.

• Pulmonology refers to study of the lungs and diagnosis, treatment and prevention of lung diseases.
• Otorhinolaryngology refers to the study of the ears, nose and throat and the prevention and treatment of diseases in those organs.

The Respiratory System

Structures of the Respiratory System

• Nose
• Pharynx (throat)
• Larynx (voice box)
• Trachea (windpipe
• Bronchi
• Lungs

The Respiratory System

Functions of the Respiratory System

• Gas exchange (respiration)
• Pulmonary ventilation
• External respiration
• Internal respiration
• Response to emotional stimuli

(Yawning, sighing, laughing, crying, sobbing)

​

The Respiratory System

Respiratory system functions in two main portions:

• Conducting portion is the air filter, the series of interconnected cavities and tubes.
• Respiratory portion is the actual lung tissue where gas exchange (oxygen and carbon dioxide) takes place.

Pathology of the Respiratory System

Cigarette smoking is the major cause of respiratory problems.

• Lung cancer
• Emphysema
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Any respiratory problem not directly caused by smoking would be exacerbated by it.

Other Pathologies of the Respiratory System�

• Apnea
• Bronchitis
• Cystic fibrosis
• Hay fever
• Hiccups
• Influenza
• Pneumonia
• Pulmonary edema

• Rhinitis (the common cold)
• Tuberculosis

​

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Digestive System

The Digestive System

• Gastroenterology is the study of the digestive system and its diseases
• The digestive system is composed of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and accessory organs
• The GI tract includes the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine
• Accessory organs include the teeth, tongue, salivary glands, liver, gallbladder, pancreas

The Digestive System

Six Major Functions of the Digestive System

• Ingestion
• Secretion
• Motility
• Digestion
• Absorption
• Defecation

The Digestive System

The Path of Food Through the Digestive System

• Food is ingested.
• Secretions from salivary glands begin to break down food.
• Food passes through pharynx (also part of respiratory system) into esophagus and into stomach.
• Motility and propulsion push food through GI tract and continues breaking down.

​

The Digestive System

• Absorption begins as nutrients enter bloodstream and lymphatic system.
• Food continues digestive process as it passes through small intestine.
• Digested food continues through large intestine (colon).
• Defecation takes place through the anus.

​

​

The Digestive System

Functions of the Accessory Organs

• Teeth chew and grind the food
• Salivary glands secrete digestive juices
• Pancreas secretes insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar
• Liver produces bile
• Gallbladder stores bile

​

The Digestive System

Nutritional Value of Food Groups

• Carbohydrates are sugars and starches that fuel the body.
• Proteins act as enzymes, hormones and immunoglobins, vital to immune function, also provide energy.
• Fats (lipids) store energy, cushion internal organs and provide insulation.

The Digestive System

• Pathology of the Digestive System
• Due to the amount of biological terrain the digestive system covers, there is a lot of pathology involved
• Stress plays a role in many digestive dysfunctions
• Poor nutrition affects many bodily functions and can cause disease
• Malabsorption and intolerance disorders also cause diseases of the digestive system
• Eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia, in addition to affecting the digestive system, are also psychological disorders

The Digestive System

Common Pathologies of the Digestive System

• Acid reflux
• Cirrhosis of the liver
• Colitis
• Constipation
• Gastritis
• Heartburn

The Digestive System

• Hernia
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Malnutrition
• Obesity
• Peptic ulcer

​

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Urinary System

The Urinary System

• Urology is the study of the urinary system and its diseases.
• Urology is also the study of the male reproductive system and its diseases.
• The urinary system filters blood, and regulates blood volume and blood pressure by managing blood composition.

The Urinary System

Structures of the Urinary System

• Two kidneys
• Two ureters
• Urinary bladder
• Urethra

The Urinary System

Kidneys are the main filter of the urinary system.

• Act to keep balance of extracellular fluid.
• Act to regulate plasma.
• Help maintain the balance between salt and water.
• Kidneys surrounded by three layers of tissue:
• Renal capsule
• Adipose capsule
• Renal fascia

The Urinary System

• Substances not needed by the body are expelled through the urine, the liquid waste excreted from the kidneys
• Nephrology is the study of the kidneys
• Nephrons are the workhorse of the kidneys
• Filtration
• Secretion
• Reabsorption

The Urinary System

Pathology of the Urinary System

• Kidney disease is a general term for a number of chronic conditions causing damage to the kidneys.
• Chronic kidney failure is irreversible and progressive wasting of the kidneys.
• Dialysis is a method of artificial filtering of the blood until transplant or death takes place.

The Urinary System

Common Pathologies of the Urinary System

• Azotemia
• Cystitis
• Enuresis
• Nephritis
• Renal calculus (kidney stones)
• Urinary tract infection (UTI)

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Reproductive System

The Reproductive System

• Different structures in males and females:
• Gonads refer to reproductive structures that produce gametes.
• In males, the gonads are the testes.
• In females, the gonads are the ovaries.
• In males, the gametes are the sperm.
• In females, the gametes are egg cells.

The Reproductive System

Structures of the Female Reproductive System

• Ovaries
• Uterus
• Fallopian tubes
• Vagina
• External genitalia (vulva)
• Breasts (mammary glands)

The Reproductive System

Structures of the Male Reproductive System

• Testes
• Epididymis
• Vas deferens
• Ejaculatory duct
• Urethra
• Seminal vesicles

​

The Reproductive System

• Prostate gland
• Bulbourethral glands
• Penis

​

The Reproductive System

• Gynecology is the medical specialty concerned with the female reproductive system.

​

• Obstetrics is the medical specialty concerned with the pregnancy, childbirth and recovery from childbirth.

The Reproductive System

• Infertility (the treatment of) is a medical specialty unto itself; infertility may affect both males and females

​

• Urology is the medical specialty concerned with the urinary system of both sexes, and specifically the reproductive system of the male

The Reproductive System

• The function of the reproductive system is sexual reproduction, the creation of offspring through the union of male and female gametes.

​

• Puberty marks sexual maturity with the appearance of secondary sex characteristics such as breast development in females and the appearance of pubic hair on both sexes.

The Reproductive System

• Females began menstruation (the monthly sloughing of the endometrium) at pu.berty

The Reproductive System

• Fertilization takes place when sperm cells and egg cells unite successfully, resulting in pregnancy.
• Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters as the fetus develops.
• The fetus is protected in the uterus by the amniotic fluid.
• At the end of the third trimester the woman goes into labor and delivers the baby.

​

The Reproductive System

• Menstruation ceases temporarily during pregnancy.
• Menstruation ceases permanently during menopause, which usually takes places in the fifties.
• During the fertile years, pregnancy can be prevented by the use of contraceptives.
• Condoms also inhibit the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.

​

The Reproductive System

The Pathology of the Reproductive System

• The reproductive system is vulnerable to other pathologies that affect the rest of the body, including viral, fungal, or bacterial infections, cancer, and birth defects.
• Because men and women have different sex organs, there are some pathologies unique to sex, such as uterine cancer or menstrual problems in females or prostate cancer in males.

​

The Reproductive System

Sexual contact is the means for spreading sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and diseases (STDs)

• AIDS (Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)
• HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus)
• Chlamydia
• Herpes
• Gonorrhea
• Syphilis

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

Safe and Efficient Movement for Client and Therapist

Safe and Efficient Movement for Client and Therapist

• Biomechanics (body mechanics) is the mechanics of muscular activity in movement and exercise.
• Kinesiology is the study of the movement of the body and the body parts involved in movement.
• Ergonomics is the study of human factors in the context of the work environment.

Safe and Efficient Movement for Client and Therapist

​

• Proprioception is the ongoing process of self-regulation of movements and posture through the somatosensory system.
• Proprioception keeps the body in balance whether still (static) or moving (dynamic).
• The vestibular system in the inner ear also helps the body maintain balance.

Safe and Efficient Movement for Client and Therapist

​

Pathological Conditions Relating to Movement

• Repetitive motion injury such as carpal tunnel syndrome
• Hyperextension
• Strain or sprain

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

Assessment

Client History

The Intake Process

• Intake form/medical history
• Client expectations and goals for treatment
• Contraindications such as illness or injury
• Informed consent
• Assessment of gait, range of motion, posture

Client History

SOAP Notes

• S= Subjective (what did the client say?)
• O= Objective (what did you observe during the assessment and through palpation during the session)
• A= Assessment/Action (What did you do?)
• P= Plan (What care plan have you and the client agreed upon?)

Client History

Excellent SOAP or other progress notes are vital to your practice.

• It is your obligation to keep good notes on your clients (the NC law is four years).
• Especially important if you are in a group practice where others might be participating in the clients’ care f you are in a referral situation with physicians, chiropractors or other health care providers.
• Use correct medical terminology.

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

Universal Precautions

Universal Precautions

Universal precautions are procedures intended to make health care, including massage, safe and sanitary for client and practitioner by preventing injury and the spread of disease.

​

Universal Precautions

• Wash hands before and after each client.
• If you cough or sneeze into your hand during a session, stop and go wash your hands.
• Provide clean linens and draping for every client.
• Keep all office surfaces clean; use germicide wherever disinfection is needed.

​

Universal Precautions

Even if not required in your state, it is advisable to be trained in First Aid and CPR.

• It may be necessary for you to be a first responder if someone is injured or become ill in your office.
• Call 911 for any serious illness or injury instead of trying to handle it yourself.

Universal Precautions

Beware not only of illnesses and conditions of the client, but those of yourself as well.

​

• Do not perform massage on an ill client, or when you are ill yourself.

​

• Do not perform massage when you have an open wound on your hands or other areas that will come in contact with the client.

​

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

Contraindications and Cautions for Massage

Contraindications

A contraindication is any condition that could be exacerbated by massage. Definite contraindications:

• Life threatening conditions
• Contagious conditions
• Acute conditions and during acute phases of chronic conditions
• New injuries
• When in doubt, call the client’s physician (with their signed permission)

Contraindications

Pharmacology

• Be aware that some drugs may cause side effects that are contraindicated for massage, even when the primary condition itself is not a contraindication.

Contraindications

Always consult a physician FIRST if the client has one of the following:

• Aneurysm
• Arteriosclerosis
• Artery blockage
• Asthma
• Burns that are not healed

Contraindications

• Cancer if metastasized or involves lymphatic system
• Diabetes if accompanied by complications
• Failure of any vital organ
• Fever
• Frostbite

​

Contraindications

• Hemophilia
• High blood pressure, severe
• Inflammation
• Influenza
• Open wounds or sores
• Periostitis
• Phlebitis

​

Contraindications

• Pitting edema
• Pneumonia
• Pregnancy if complicated by toxemia or other problems
• Recent surgery (incision must be fully healed)
• Shock
• Stroke or heart attack
• Thrombosis

Contraindications

Cautionary Sites

• Areas of the body to be cautious due to superficial veins, arteries, nerves or organs that could be damaged by deep massage (may work lightly over these areas); for example:
• Jugular vein
• Carotid artery
• Kidneys
• Popliteal triangle

​

Contraindications

A Good Rule of Thumb For Contraindications:

If the client is in control of the condition, go ahead with the massage; if the condition is in control of the client, massage should be avoided.

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

Massage & Bodywork Techniques

Massage & Bodywork Techniques

Basic Swedish techniques are the foundation of most Western modalities of massage therapy:

• Effleurage (gliding)
• Tapotement
• Petrissage (kneading)
• Vibration
• Friction
• Nerve stroke

Massage & Bodywork Techniques

• Swedish strokes are traditionally performed in the direction of the heart, but it is NOT harmful in any way to do otherwise.
• The terms “technique” and “modality” are often used interchangeably, but technique technically refers to the specific stroke, while a modality is a system of movements performed in a certain manner with the intent of achieving specific results.

Massage & Bodywork Techniques

Adjunct Techniques for Massage Therapists

​

• Joint mobilizations
• Stretching
• Hydrotherapy
• Spa treatments

Massage & Bodywork Techniques

Joint Mobilizations

• Increase range of motion and flexibilty
• May be assisted (active) or unassisted (passive)
• During assisted exercises, the client offers resistance
• Muscle energy technique
• Positional release technique
• Strain—counterstrain technique

Massage & Bodywork Techniques

• Stretching Techniques
• Active Isolated Stretching
• PNF (Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation)
• Reciprocal inhibition stretching
• Static stretching (active or passive)
• Avoid ballistic stretching (bouncing and going past point of resistance or client’s pain tolerance)

​

Hydrotherapy

The application of water in any of its forms, including heat, steam and ice (cryotherapy) or chemical ice substitute:

• May include bath and shower variations.
• The more the temperature of treatment varies from normal body temperature, the more profound the effect.

​

​

Massage & Bodywork Techniques

Effects of Hydrotherapy

• Thermal effects
• Chemical effects
• Mechanical effects
• Hydrostatic effects

Massage & Bodywork Techniques

Spa Treatments

• Includes applications of substances such as mud, clay, masques, lotions, scrubs, body wraps, showers, baths, saunas, cryotherapy, float pools.

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

Modalities

Modalities

• A modality is a system of movements performed in a certain manner with the intent of achieving specific results
• There is a lot of overlap among techniques and modalities
• Most Western modalities are based on the techniques of Swedish massage

Modalities

• Some modalities are directed at rehabilitation and injury repair.
• Some modalities focus on relieving pain.
• Some modalities are aimed at releasing restricted emotions believed to contribute to pain in the body.
• Some modalities are directed at a body system other than the muscles.
• Some modalities are directed at relaxation.

Modalities

• Some modalities are aimed at specific populations, such as geriatric clients, infants, pregnant women, or hospice patients.
• Some modalities, like the Alexander Technique or Feldenkraise, contain a component of movement education for the client
• Some modalities are named for the person who developed them (Rolfing).
• Some modalities are based on techniques from Asian bodywork.

​

​

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Ethics of Massage

Ethics

• Behaving with integrity in a morally acceptable and professional manner

​

• Because we place our hands on unclothed people that are vulnerable, it is imperative that we abide by a code of professional ethics.

​

• The National Examinations Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork, Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards, AMTA and ABMP have their own Codes.

Ethics

​

​

The following Code of Ethics is from the American Massage Therapy Association. It is divided into two parts, the Principles of Ethics and the Rules of Ethics.

Massage therapists/practitioners shall:

1. Demonstrate commitment to provide the highest quality massage therapy/bodywork to those who seek their professional service.
2. Acknowledge the inherent worth and individuality of each person by not discriminating or behaving in any prejudicial manner with clients and/or colleagues.
3. Demonstrate professional excellence through regular self-assessment of strengths, limitations and effectiveness by continued education and training.
4. Acknowledge the confidential nature of the professional relationship with clients and respect each client’s right to privacy within the constraints of the law.
5. Project a professional image and uphold the highest standards of professionalism.
6. Accept responsibility to do no harm to the physical, mental and emotional well-being of self, clients and associates.

1. Massage therapists/practitioners shall:
2. Conduct all business and professional activities within their scope of practice and all applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
3. Refrain from engaging in any sexual conduct or sexual activities involving their clients in the course of a massage therapy session.
4. Be truthful in advertising and marketing, and refrain from misrepresenting his or her services, charges for services, credentials, training, experience, ability or results.
5. Refrain from using AMTA membership, including the AMTA name, logo or other intellectual property, or the member’s position, in any way that is unauthorized, improper or misleading.
6. Refrain from engaging in any activity which would violate confidentiality commitments and/or proprietary rights of AMTA or any other person or organization.

Ethics

• HIPAA
• Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
• Addresses security and privacy of client information
• Guarantees clients access to their records
• Requires maintaining records in a secure environment

Ethics

Scope of Practice

• Do not prescribe.
• Do not diagnose.
• Do not do work that falls under the scope of other health professionals such as counselors, chiropractors, doctors or others.
• Do not give unqualified and/or unsolicited advice.

Ethics

The Therapeutic Relationship

• Respect the client’s role and boundaries.
• Enforce your own role and boundaries as the therapist.
• Remember your role is massage therapist, not counselor, physician or something other than what it is.
• Recognize that in the therapeutic relationship, there is a power differential in favor of the therapist.

Ethics

• Transference occurs when clients become too dependent on the therapist to meet their emotional needs.
• Countertransference occurs when the therapist reacts to the client’s transference or to the client in general.
• Dual roles should be avoided; having more than a therapeutic relationship with a client is a recipe for misunderstanding and resentment.

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

The Business of Massage

The Business of Massage

Employee vs. Independent Contractor

• Employee
• Employees usually keep regular hours and receive hourly pay or agreed upon salary.
• Taxes are deducted from paycheck.
• Other benefits such as insurance, uniforms, vacation pay may be provided.
• Receive a W-2 form at year’s end.

​

​

The Business of Massage

Independent Contractor

• Considered self-employed contract worker.
• May be paid by the job, or hourly pay.
• Responsible for paying own taxes, nothing deducted.
• Should file quarterly estimated tax.
• Not entitled to any benefits.
• May keep own schedule.
• Receives a 1099 at the end of the year.

The Business of Massage

Components of the Business Plan

• Projected startup expenses and budget for at least first year in business
• Goals
• Mission statement
• Market study
• Marketing plan

​

The Business of Massage

Terminology of Business

• Gross income: income before expenses
• Net income: income after expenses
• Tax deduction: legitimate business expense
• Liability insurance: protects practitioner from a lawsuit due to injury or negligence
• Balance sheet: basic financial statement

The Business of Massage

Business Structures

• Sole proprietorship (1 owner)
• Partnership (2 or more owners)
• Corporation (may have any number of owners; primary advantage is protection of personal assets)

Plain & Simple Guide to Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Examinations

​

Concepts of Energetic Anatomy

The MBLEx outline says “Concepts of Energetic Anatomy” but does not further explain that. You might be asked to define meridian, for example, but you will not be asked to name any specific points.

Concepts of Energetic Anatomy

Traditional Eastern Medicine

• Combination of anatomy, physiology, pathology and philosophy
• Chinese, Indians and other Eastern peoples have been practicing medicine for centuries.
• Many forms of bodywork are based on Eastern principles, including Shiatsu, Thai massage, amma, acupuncture and acupressure.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Yin and Yang:

• Represent the opposite principles of the universe.
• Yin represents female, cold, wet, darkness, material forms, and submission.
• Yang represents male, hot, dry, light, the sun, and dominance.
• Each opposite produces the other.

Eastern Bodywork

​

Eastern Terms for Energy (Bioenergy or Life Force)

• Ki
• Chi
• Qi

Eastern Bodywork

The Five Element Theory of Wu-hsing

• Wood
• Fire
• Earth
• Metal
• Water
• Grouped in the order they produce each other (wood produces fire, fire produces earth, earth produces metal, metal gives rise to water and so forth)

Eastern Bodywork

Eastern Forms of Bodywork

• Not just about muscle, but influence on energy as well.
• Often based on meridian theory.
• Some modalities intend to affect internal organs as well as muscles.
• Lots of overlap on the modalities.
• Often performed on a mat on the floor with client fully clothed or adapted to the table.

​

Eastern Bodywork

• Tui Na
• Chi Nei Tsang
• Chi-Kung
• Qi Gong
• Shiatsu
• Shiatsu addresses acupressure points known as tsubos with the intent to release energy blockages

Ayurveda

Ayurveda (Ayurvedic Medicine)

• From India
• Has much in common with Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Energy is called prana, or kundalini
• Energy points referred to as marmas
• At least 5000 years old

Ayurveda

Ayurvedic Philosophy

• Considered a “complete science of life”.
• Proper breathing, nutrition and exercise are all components required to keep life in balance.
• Ayurvedic cleansing involves cleansing not only the body but the mind and spirit as well.

​

Ayurveda

Five Elements of Ayurveda

Differ from Wu-Hsing

• Ether (space)
• Air
• Fire
• Water
• Earth

Ayurveda

Doshas

• Also called “humors”, refer to individual’s constitution based on the Five Elements.
• Belief that the elements in different combinations are responsible for a person’s physiological makeup.
• Each person made up of combined doshas, but one dosha is dominant.

Ayurveda

​

Vata Dosha

• Made up of ether and air
• Governs the principles of movement, including nerve impulses, circulation, respiration, and elimination
• Dry, cold and light

Ayurveda

Pitta Dosha

• Made up of fire and water
• Responsible for metabolism
• Governs the process of transforming food into nutrients the body can assimilate
• Governs metabolism of cells, tissues, and organs
• Oily, hot and light

​

Ayurveda

​

Kapha Dosha

• Made up of water and earth
• Responsible for growth
• Governs protection of body organs
• Wet, cold and heavy

The Meridians

12 primary meridians that are paired, mirroring the other on either side of the body

• There are 2 extraordinary meridians
• Meridian theory is at least 2000 years old
• Meridian theory is that they are energy pathways and are the basis for

many forms of Asian bodywork and energy work

The Meridians

The Extraordinary Meridians

• There are two extraordinary meridians that are not paired
• Central vessel (CV) also called the conception vessel
• Governing vessel (GV)

The Meridians

Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory

• The body’s energy (chi) circulates through each organ in a 12-hour period.
• Each organ has a time when the energy peaks in that particular organ.
• There are many associations with the meridians, including organs, times of day, seasons, colors, emotions, elements, smells, directions, and so forth.
• Over 500 known meridian points.

The Meridians

• The Five Seasons
• There are five seasons in Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory
• Winter
• Spring
• Summer
• Late summer
• Autumn

The Chakras

Facts About the Chakras

• Chakra is a Sanskrit word meaning “wheel” or “disk”.
• Chakras are energy centers.
• Seven major chakras.
• Many minor chakras.
• Chakras project electromagnetic activity around the seven major nerve plexuses.

The Chakras

• Each chakra is associated with an endocrine gland.
• Chakras have associations with locations of the body, colors, body parts, emotions, and levels of consciousness.
• Chakras are affected by stress and emotion.
• The chakras are referred to by name and/or number.

The Chakras

• 1^st Chakra (Root or base) perineum
• 2^nd Chakra (Sacral chakra) hara
• 3^rd Chakra (Solar plexus) solar plexus
• 4^th Chakra (Heart) center of the chest
• 5^th Chakra (Throat) base of throat
• 6^th Chakra (Third eye)
• 7^th Chakra (Crown)

The Chakras

1^st Chakra (Root or Base)

• Located at perineum
• Associated with the color red
• Associated with lymph, skeletal, and excretory systems
• Associated with adrenal glands and pelvic plexus
• Associated with sense of smell
• Associated with trust and survival

​

The Chakras

2^nd Chakra (Sacral)

• Located at center of abdomen (hara)
• Associated with color orange
• Associated with reproductive system
• Associated with gonads and aortic plexus
• Associated with sense of taste
• Associated with sexuality and basic needs of food and sex

​

The Chakras

3^rd Chakra (Solar plexus)

Located at solar plexus

Associated with color yellow

Associated with muscular, integumentary, digestive systems, eyes and face

Associated with pancreas and coeliac plexus

Associated with sense of sight

Associated with perception

​

The Chakras

4^th Chakra (Heart)

• Located at the center of chest
• Associated with color emerald green
• Associated with heart, circulatory system, lungs and chest
• Associated with thymus gland and cardia plexus
• Associated with sense of touch as felt internally
• Associated with love and relationships

The Chakras

6^th Chakra (Third eye)

• Located at center of forehead
• Associated with color indigo
• Associated with forehead and temples
• Associated with pituitary gland, carotid plexus
• Associated with perception and spirituality

​

The Chakras

5^th Chakra (Throat)

• Located at base of throat
• Associated with color sky blue
• Associated with throat, neck and upper extremities
• Associated with thyroid gland, brachial plexus
• Associated with sense of hearing
• Associated with expression, communication, creativity

The Chakras

7^th Chakra (Crown)

Located at the top of the head

Associated with the color violet

Associated with the brain and nervous system

Associated with the pineal gland and limbic area

Associated with empathy, unity, and separation