Ever had a client who asked for more pressure overall than you can comfortably deliver? Here’s a simple solution that will meet the client’s need and protect your thumbs:
Every time you “step into” the tissue as you walk the plantar surface of the foot, use your supporting hand (on the dorsal side of the foot) to pull the foot closer to your body and your working thumb. That way you come into the tissue with your thumb and wrap the tissue around the thumb at the same time. More depth, less effort.
PS. If you lean forward with your body as you perform this two-pronged move, and then lean back as you straighten your thumb to move forward on the foot, you will initiate a soothing rocking experience for yourself.
Thanks Karen…Your words take me back to your classroom. Good technique and body mechanics certainly make a big difference for the practitioner as well as the client. It has been nice learning from someone like yourself, with years of valuable experience.