does anyone have any advice on adapting massage routines for the above type of client. I have no experience of on site massage and although my tutor promised to show us a routine she hasn't got round to it and I go on placement next week. Anyone with any advice out there would be much appreciated !
namaste
RE: advice on massage for wheelchair users
Hi Bearwoman
You normally get them out of the wheelchair and lay them on a bed or something to do the treatment and then put them back after, you could do some work with them say in the chair bit it would be very restrictive to say the least.
RE: advice on massage for wheelchair users
A few months ago I spent a day at respite home for disabled people and did mini treatments on several people with different needs. Most were in wheelchairs and some of the clients were able to be hoisted onto my couch using the electric hoist (quite time consuming, and needing two carers so I needed to add probably 20 minutes either side of the massage).
Some of my clients, however, were too nervous to be treated on the couch so I was able to work on them in their wheelchairs. One lady's wheelchair had a fold down back, so I was able to work down to the lower thoracic area. On others, I was able to get the client to lean forward slightly, so I could work down as low as possible. Also worked the head, arms and hands.
When working with disabled people, the most important thing is to be adaptable, to know what the person's disability is and how it affects them (do they have pain, discomfort, weakness or no feeling at all in certain areas) and just work with what you've got. Some people, for instance, may only want a half hour hand massage, so it's important to be able to have lots of different techniques to work an area.
I would also add that the work is extremely tiring, you may find you have to get into some strange positions to treat, so watch your back. However, it is so very rewarding, so enjoy.
Lesley
RE: advice on massage for wheelchair users
Bearwoman,
I think this would depend on the severity of their disability. If they are able to transfer to a couch, still bear in mind that they may not be able to tolerate laying face down. My daughter hates to be prone, but is ok to be laid on her side on the couch with pillows in front of her to "cuddle round" so I can massage her back.
If the client cannot - or it is just not feasible - to get onto the couch, a good feet/lower leg massage followed by a hand /lower arm massage is always appreciated!
A low stool for you to sit on in front of them is useful for this.
You can place 4-5 pillows or cushions onto their lap and get them to lean onto them (very comfie!) to be able to massage shoulders/upperback/neck, and a nice head massage is good too!
I think the key is to be very flexible, and be led by the ability of the client!
K xx
RE: advice on massage for wheelchair users
advice most appreciated many thanks to you all x
namaste
RE: advice on massage for wheelchair users
Have to agree with Aromababe here. I did some people in wheelchairs when I worked at a Cancer support centre. Some can't get out of them easily and would be very uncomfortable on a couch. I always adapted the massage to suit their needs. It is possible to do them in a wheelchair. If they can sit on a chair then you can get them to lean against the couch against pillows. It is quite possible to give a good massage when the client is seated, though it is indeed hard work and hard on your own back. Do what is best for you and easiest.;)