Touch and Movement
Palpation and Kinesiology for Massage Therapists

TOUCH & MOVEMENT: PALPATION AND KINESIOLOGY FOR MASSAGE THERAPISTS leads step-by-step through the client assessment process, from analysis of posture and gait through application of the principles of complex movement to palpation of the skeletal and soft tissue structures of the body. Extensive instruction in palpation and kinesiology techniques including focus on endangerment zones, cautions and contraindications, and an array of palpation practice exercises, encourages true mastery of this crucial assessment tool. The text engages all learning styles with a range of hands-on exercises. Students can apply new concepts and techniques right there in the classroom or reinforce those skills in the treatment room. They learn why and how they should palpate bony landmarks, soft tissue attachments, and muscles. It grounds the reader in the fundamentals of joint and muscle anatomy and physiology. It also fills in potential educational gaps for those massage therapists whose initial training took place prior to classes that incorporated in-depth palpation and kinesiology techniques. With TOUCH & MOVEMENT: PALPATION AND KINESIOLOGY FOR MASSAGE THERAPISTS, established professionals and massage therapy students alike will find a visual and comprehensive tool created for and dedicated to their specific practical and educational needs and career growth.

1. Introduction to Palpation and Kinesiology. 2. Posture Assessment. 3. Gait Assessment. 4. Deconstructing Complex Movements. 5. The Science of Palpation. 6. The Art of Palpation. 7. Palpating Bony Landmarks and Connective Tissue Structures. 8. Palpating Superficial Muscles of the Axial Skeleton. 9. Palpating Superficial Muscles of the Extremities. 10. Palpating Deeper Muscles and Muscle Groups.