How can a therapist be “too structural”?
I had abandoned the Buffalo Bills a few weeks back. Too many losses got boring to write about. But, they are back; two wins in a row. Plugging it out can pay off.
Plugging it out, as a body worker, can pay similar dividends. You may have different approaches or philosophies on how to best create change, but putting in the work is essential. I’ve mentioned frequently here on my blog, and elsewhere, that there are many excellent modalities for pain resolution. I happen to feel that Myofascial Release is an excellent choice for reaching this goal. But within the Myofascial Release “community” there are differing factions, each holding strong to its principles. I applaud this loyalty, as we all want to feel that the modality we chose or the teacher we follow has the answers.There is certainly enough pie to go around for everyone.
But, as a therapist, don’t limit your choices. Each teacher has something of value to share, despite what some might have to say. If you teacher discourages you from adding to your knowledge by training elsewhere, be wary. As science and experience progresses, what once seemed cutting edge may soon drift into history.
As for being called “too structural”, I do what the patient calls for. Trying to fit everyone into a box is wrong. Stating that if a person doesn’t unwind, they are simply not ready for this work is wrong as well.
Thank you for the post. Every therapist needs to at least consider this. I’ve had my fill of therapists who think they have all there is to know and who think they know my body better than I do. And I’ve had those who think they are unwinding me when I should have been in a still point. I’ve excused some as just gaining experience, but there are those who won’t let go of their pride long enough to learn something from the patient. It is frustrating to see such potential wasted, especially when I was involved. I was taught that unwinding takes many forms, that each body is unique, and that has been my experience. I’m glad that I’ve found such good company here.
Janet,
I’m glad that you feel comfortable here. I believe that we were both taught that you never force an unwinding. But it is my experience that when nearly every demonstration that comes from the stage ends (heck, often starts) with an unwinding, the student comes away with the message that this is the desired outcome. The mantra of “they are just not ready for this work, or to go for it”, when applied to patients/students who do not unwind is presumptuous and wrong.
Listen to the body, but as important, listen to yourself.
I completed Cortiva Institute and received my National Certification in December/2010. I am researching which continuing edu MFR courses to take and looking at Barnes, Upledger and others. I’m not really sure where I belong (philosophy) but I am certain I have the talent for this amazing modality. I keep on trying different MFR techniques on my clients and receiving excellent results. While trying different things like holding the shoulder girdle with one hand and placing my hand on the medial edge of the scapula activating a release – I ask the clients to explain what they are feeling and also observing the physical change in the area that I am working.
Most of my private practice clients are men my age (45-50) and workout 4 – 5 X a week their bodies are very muscular and the change becomes obvious to me and to them. I have a full length mirror in their changing room and they comment on how the shoulders have dropped into a natural position and opened up. Their hips are also opened and legs feel free.
As far as changing teachers and learning from different people and styles – I’m all for it. If a painter finishes undergraduate studies then choose the same school and professors for their graduate studies how much can they learn about painting. The just learn how to paint like their professors. Lame.
I need to talk to some other MTs about the work I am doing and find a MFR teacher who can help me grow as a MFR technician. Thanks for tossing this idea out. I actually has been on my mind now I just need to find a few MFR mentors. Yours in healing touch, Thom
Thom
It really sounds like you are on a path and Fritz here is so open to different options and ways of looking at things so you would do well to follow his lead. Consider also studying Aston-Kinetics to add a unique perspective, assesment, movement and accuracy to your technical skills. I would recommend Judith Aston as a mentor as she teaches advanced visual assesment and problem solving technology in addition to technical releases, which helps taylor your sessions to create the changes you wish to see in the sequence that needs occur for each person. This will make you an even more fabulous bodyworker. Don’t hesitate to contact me if you are interested.