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Learn practical thumbs-free massage techniques in this 4-hour continuing education course for massage therapists. The course presents a complete full-body massage routine that can be performed without using the thumbs, helping therapists explore alternative ways to apply pressure and work with clients.
The techniques are adapted from Swedish massage, Lomi Lomi, sports massage, Thai massage, myofascial release, and other modalities. The course includes prone, supine, and side-lying techniques along with approximately 90 minutes of video demonstration and additional optional videos covering therapist self-care.
In this course, you will learn:
The principles and benefits of thumbs-free massage
Alternative techniques for performing massage without using the thumbs
A complete full-body thumbs-free massage routine
Techniques for prone, supine, and side-lying positions
Massage strokes adapted from multiple massage modalities
Techniques for reducing reliance on the thumbs during massage
Alternative ways to apply pressure using different parts of the hands and arms
How thumbs-free techniques can be incorporated into an existing massage routine
Practical techniques demonstrated through approximately 90 minutes of video
Self-care strategies for massage therapists
Why take this course?
The thumbs are frequently used during massage and can become overworked with repetitive use. Learning alternative techniques can help massage therapists expand their body mechanics and technique options while reducing reliance on the thumbs during massage sessions.
This 4-hour course provides a practical full-body routine that can be incorporated into an existing massage practice. With techniques adapted from several massage modalities and approximately 90 minutes of video instruction, it is a useful choice for therapists who want to explore thumbs-free massage techniques.
Describe the principles and purpose of thumbs-free massage.
Identify alternative techniques for performing massage without using the thumbs.
Describe a full-body massage routine using thumbs-free techniques.
Identify techniques appropriate for prone, supine, and side-lying positions.
Describe massage techniques adapted from Swedish, Lomi Lomi, sports, Thai, and myofascial release approaches.
Explain how thumbs-free techniques can reduce reliance on the thumbs during massage.
Identify alternative methods of applying pressure during massage.
Describe ways to incorporate thumbs-free techniques into an existing massage routine.
Demonstrate an understanding of the techniques presented in the online video demonstrations.
Identify self-care strategies relevant to massage therapists.
Video: Thumbs-Free Massage by Kay Rynerson, LMP, RTT, approximately 70 minutes
Text: Thumbs-Free Massage by Corrine Rubida, 65 pages
Course guide and instructions
28-question multiple-choice examination
Course evaluation
Certificate of achievement upon completion
Unlimited phone and email support for any questions
The Center for Massage Therapy Continuing Education, LLC is an Approved Provider through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB); Approved Provider number 409296-00.
Our online massage continuing education courses are also accepted by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP), and most state boards.
For more information on individual state requirements and approvals, please visit our Approvals page and click on your state.
I love how this course has layered more information I have already learned. It is easy to get stuck in a rut of techniques, but this has definitely added more tools to my tool box. - Brooke Templeton
I liked that I could follow video and look at the written content at the same time. Was a very good video and course. - Greg Davison
It provided me with many different massage strokes that I can start using on clients right away! - James Lundberg
The DVD was amazing, providing a full body routine, saving my thumbs at the same time! - Maura K.
I liked the format of the course. It was easy to navigate and test online! - Leslie V.
What does ESG stand for?
A. Erector spinae group
B. Extra special gait
C. Extensor spinae group
D. Elastic spreading gait
The wringing the back technique is performed with:
A. Knuckles
B. Forearms
C. Flat hands
D. Elbows
When performing the whole arm sweep, substantial pressure should be used:
A. On the way down toward the wrist
B. For the entire technique
C. On the extensors and flexors
D. On the way up toward the heart
Course Author
About the Instructor
Kay Rynerson, LMT, RTT
Kay Rynerson, Licensed Massage Practitioner and Registered Thai Therapist and author of The Thai Massage Workbook has been collecting, adapting, and road testing stretches for the client on the massage table since 1988. A graduate of Seattle Massage School, she also earned a teaching certificate from the Institute of Thai Massage in Chiang Mai, Thailand. She maintains a private practice in Seattle, Washington, and teaches nationwide. Member, AMTA and the Thai Healing Alliance International.
