Massage Tutorial- Scalenes (myofascial release, palpation)

This myofascial spreading technique for the neck and chest gives that feeling of "stretch" while keeping clients within their comfortable range of motion. Go slowly with this, and keep both hand tools broad and gentle. This could easily be incorporated into a more traditional myofascial release routine by slowing way down and listening closely to the tissue as you proceed. As shown here, it's more like a "myofascial Swedish."

If your clients tend to hold onto their neck, or try to "help," then you may need to slow down or make firmer contact. For some clients, you will simply need to ask them to "allow your head to roll."

If you're having difficulty telling exactly what I'm doing with my hands: My right hand is a broad, loose fist, with pressure directed initially toward C7 and moving superiorly. The left hand is a broad palm, conforming to the changing landscape underneath it, directing some pressure down toward the table, but most out laterally toward the glenohumeral joint. In both bases, apply firm pressure, but think of moving skin.

Let me know what you think, and if you have any ideas for alterations or improvements! If you give this a try, I'd love to hear how it goes.