Directors' Reports

From the President’s Desk

Let me begin by congratulating the 22 new members who successfully challenged the summer sitting of the MTAS exam. Welcome to our association and to the massage profession. There are so many benefits to being a member of MTAS. Your board of directors is continuing to work toward more opportunities, greater visibility in the community and safeguarding you as a therapist and our clients through our strides toward legislation. I hope that each of you will flourish in your new career. 

 Thank you to all members who helped out as examiners and “bodies” for the June exams. Your efforts are greatly appreciated. Thank you to Don Wickstrom, our Education Chair, and Cassandra  Exner-Williams, Chief Examiner; for coordinating the exams in Saskatoon and Regina and having them marked in a timely fashion.

The legislation committee continues to work towards our goal of legislation. Thank you to all members who have submitted signed petitions. We continue to welcome signatures and want to let you, the member, know that the committee is staying active and pressing forward. Thank you Jessica Green, Legislation Chairperson and Garret Woynarski, committee member, for staying on top of this for us.

Thanks to the efforts of our Membership Chairperson, Darlene McCoshen, we will soon be hearing a series of radio advertising on the RAWLCO radio network. We would love to hear your opinions on the ads so please stay in touch with us through the MTAS office.

As fall approaches, we are starting to see ads for continuing education opportunities. Among others, the Cadaver Lab at the U of S is always incredibly informative. Please remember that there are an abundance of FREE home study credits you can receive through TouchU. All the approved courses can be found on the MTAS website.

Lori Green, Executive Director, and I will soon be traveling to the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Anti-Fraud Conference. We have attend this conference in the past. It is a wonderful opportunity for us to be present if and when the insurers have questions or concerns. Interestingly, this year there is a seminar specifically on Massage Fraud. We will report back after the conference.

This summer Lori has also been actively researching what it would take for our members to practice outside of Canada. We were pleasantly surprised at how easily we were accepted. Maintaining high standards of training, competency standards, con ed and First Aid/CPR has definitely shone through in our application process to other countries. If you’d like more information about what countries we can work in and what their requirements are, please feel free to contact the MTAS office. Since Lori is still working on this project, we may not have a complete list yet in this newsletter but I’m sure you’ll see more info in the upcoming newsletters.

Wishing you all a wonderful time of family and fun in the few weeks left of summer. Thank you so much to the board who continues to work tirelessly on our members behalf. And thank you Jayne for keeping our office running efficiently.

Until next newsletter,

Julianne Heagy, RMT, MTAS President

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Education Report - Don Wickstrom
As usual, we offered two June sittings of the Board Examination, one in Saskatoon and one in Regina.  There were 27 candidates in total, with 20 mastering the exam.  The August rewrite saw two candidates, both of whom passed.  21 of these candiates to date have become members of MTAS. 

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Membership Report - Darlene McCoshen

Hello to all!! 
Just want to wish you all happy summer holidays!!!  Well to business - not too much on the membership level. In Prince Albert  we are continuing to work with City council in getting a bylaw such as Saskatoon’s around massage therapy businesses.  We continue to provide presentations to the physicians regarding support for referring patients to MTAS members.

An MTAS advertising campaign will begin in September on Z99 Regina, C95  Saskatoon, and Power 99 FM…………stay tuned.

A reminder that all members be on time with your memberhip renewal and maintaining your professionalism. 

Take care for now.
Dar McCoshen - Membership

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Executive Director's Report - Lori Green

Hello to all of you and welcome to our twenty-six new members!  As our summer ends we begin our renewal season at MTAS.   In this edition you will find your membership renewal documents - please be diligent in filling out the form completely when returning it to the office.  We also have a very important legislation form (bright green in your printed packages) for all members to respond to.

We are kicking off fall with a media campaign on Rawlco Radio.  Regina, Saskatoon and Prince Albert area listeners will hear the benefits of seeing a massage therapist from MTAS throughout the months of September through May 2012.  We will also be working at more promotion of our membership through tradeshows and events.  Darcel Kjelshus and I are actively seeking out individuals who are interested in participating in the promotion of your individual business and the profession of massage.

We are very proud to be a sponsor of the Third International Fascia Conference, to be held in Vancouver March 28 – 30th.  The principal focus of the 2012 Congress is the presentation of the latest and best scientific research findings on the human fasciae in all its forms and functions. This event will benefit anyone who wishes to further educate themselves on the most recent discoveries: Acupuncturists, Anatomists, Chiropractors, Educators in fascial related fields, Ergonomists, Kinesiologists, MDs (Physiatrists/Plastic Surgeons), Movement/Dance Educators (Yoga/Pilates/Martial Arts), Naturopaths, Occupational Therapists, Osteopaths, Physiotherapists, RMTs, (bodyworkers/Rolfers/ Structural Integrationists) Nurses, etc.
Please visit the website http://www.fasciacongress.org/2012/ for more information.

We are continuing to work towards legislation and are optimistic for future meetings with the Government.

Speaking of optimism, I had a unique experience today in having an impromptu coffee with a group of MTAS members.  Over the course of the conservation we spoke of many of the activities and future plans of the MTAS board of directors, legislation pros and cons, opportunities taken and opportunities lost for the Association.   I left feeling elated at the opportunity I had been given to hear directly from members and some wonderful direction that I can share with the Board.  I am hoping I left them feeling that every member can make a difference in the Association and in building your profession and that your voice is always welcome at the office.  The Board has a firm commitment to transparency and communication - if you individually or as a group would like to get together to  receive feedback and information or to share your opinions and ideas, the directors and myself would be pleased to do so.  Please contact me at the office with topics or requests.  This includes all of our membership throughout the province - we have a large board of directors this year, and geography will not be a barrier to these meetings.  Thank you to the group for your candor and your ideas!

Sincerely

Lori Green, Executive Director

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Newsletter Advertising Opportunities

Our new electronic newsletter format presents some new opportunities for advertising.

Firstly, we have space in the footer for 3 graphic files. Each one must be submitted by e-mail to the MTAS office in .jpg, .gif or .bmp format, no larger than 250 x 250 pixels. These ads will be $75.00 each + GST for members or $150.00 each for non-members and will be booked on a first come, first served basis.

Secondly, because the electronic format uses pixels, rather than physical dimensions to describe space, we will no longer be able to offer the standard business card size, quarter page, half page and full page ad spaces that you have been used to seeing in the past. Ads must now be submitted in the correct size using graphic format - .jpg, .gif or .bmp files.
Click here for the size details and advertising rates.

We recognize that not all members have access to a graphics program or a graphic designer, so we will still accept your ad in plain text format.
• The advertiser is responsible for supplying the ad text via e-mail (no exceptions).
• Plain text only; no graphics, logos or images; no special formatting, fonts, outlines etc.
• Ads will be typed in the Classified Ads section, in random order.
• Ads will be separated from each other by a solid line.
• Colour maybe added to the ad text – advertiser must specify the colour(s) and location(s). Additional charges will apply.
Click here for advertising rates.

The fnal option is a link insertion. This option allows your link to access either a landing page on your website or a specific document, and will open up as a new tab in the web browser.
• The advertiser is responsible for supplying the link via e-mail, as a .pdf file or URL.
• Maximum .pdf file size is 1MB.
• Links will be placed in the Classified Ads section, in random order.
• Links will display as a one-line string e.g. “Click here to access website - www.saskmassagetherapy.com”
• Ads will be separated from each other by a solid line.
Click here for advertising rates.

If you would like to send out an ad to our membership, please also consider using our e-blast ad service. This option has not changed - to send out an ad to the 787 members [out of our total 815 members] with e-mail addresses on file, is still $25.00 + GST for members and $50.00 + GST for non-members. There is no size restriction for these ads, and they go directly to each member. All you need to do is send an e-mail to Jayne at the MTAS office, including the exact text for your ad. I can usually send these out the day they are received, and we can either invoice you via e-mail, or you can pay with a credit card on the telephone.

The other option we have always had available is our website classified advertising tool. The cost for this is $45.00 + GST per month for members and $60.00 + GST per month for non-members. Follow the same procedure as outlined above to get your ad onto our website.

Letters to the Editor

As you know, we already practice an "open door" policy of communication with our members, both in person and in writing or by telephone.  You are welcome to come in to see us, write to us or phone us with any questions, concerns or comments you may have for either the office staff or Board of Directors.
In an effort to solicit more member participation and dialogue, we will now be including this "Letters to the Editor" column in each electronic newsletter.  Although we have always requested member submissions to the newsletter in the past, perhaps this format will encourage more of you to let us know what's on your mind.  Letters may be submitted by e-mail to mtas@sasktel.net

Response to "DO WE NEED MORE STAMPS?" in Volume 5 Number 1 - May 2011.

Warren Barry stated the following in the May 2011 - Volume 5 Number 2 Reach Bulletin Newsletter: “Either way, since massage therapy is one of the most used services, someone is going to have to justify the cost to cover those services. My question is, can we scientifically or statistically validate the work we do in order to justify the costs of that coverage? Unfortunately, the answer to that question right now is No. So, in order to do that, we need research, statistics, legislation and support.”
Like many in our MTAS community, I have had the honour of doing this massage therapy (MT) work for many years. I have also had the delight of being an educator for future and current MTs to support their work. In addition, I have had the privilege of attending graduate school and learning to do research. It must be said though that becoming a researcher is not necessary to be proficient in using research to support one’s MT work. Each practitioner within any field of work, whether it is general medical practice, physiotherapy, acupuncture or massage therapy should be somewhat of an authority on what is known about that work.
As a MT therapist-educator-researcher I certainly agree that more research, statistics, legislation and support is needed. However, I cannot agree that the answer to the query “can we scientifically or statistically validate the work we do” is “No”. Depending on what constitutes “the work we do”, in many cases the answer is clearly “YES”! Perhaps it would be most illustrative if I were to describe here the scientific or statistical validation in the context of the work I do. The reader can decide if the work I do looks at all like the work they do.
The majority of the work I do falls within two categories: 1) reducing pain and improving clients’ ability to function and 2) relieving clients’ manifestations of the stress response. Reflecting on my practice, I have come to understand that people seek MT either because they are hurting and it is interfering with their work or play or they are feeling strung out, overwhelmed and anxious and that is interfering with their work or play. Often they fall in both categories and are seeking relief from both pain/dysfunction and distress.
The most common pain and dysfunction related complaint that brings people to seek my care is low back pain. Is there any scientific or statistical validation for the work that I do with clients who have low back pain? Yes, there is. There is a published Cochrane systematic review in which the authors assessed the effects of massage therapy for non-specific low back pain. The authors concluded that massage might be beneficial for patients with subacute and chronic non-specific low-back pain, especially when combined with exercises and education. They also reported that “massage was superior to joint mobilization, relaxation therapy, physical therapy, acupuncture and self-care education”. They came to this conclusion after systematically reviewing thirteen randomized trials on MT and low back pain.1
For the reader unfamiliar with Cochrane reviews, the Cochrane Library publishes the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) which is similar to “Consumer Reports” about products on the market. The authors of the reviews are part of a world-wide network - the Cochrane Collaboration. These reviews are strictly about assessing the effects of interventions in healthcare and use methods of systematic review and meta-analysis making them the highest level of scientific and statistical validation. So, I feel confident that I can answer “yes” to the question of whether or not my work as a MT has scientific or statistical validation as an effective treatment for individuals with low back pain. Now if “might be beneficial” seems like a watery recommendation I want to remind the readers that it is indeed a Cochrane review recommendation for MT as a beneficial intervention for low back pain! This type of substantiation is what policy-makers look for in justifying payment of services.
As I stated earlier the other main category of ills that brings people to my office is distressing manifestations of the stress response. In my experience people seek out MT care when they are suffering anxiety and stress or when they are feeling depressed. Is there scientific or statistical validation for the work that I do with these individuals? Yes. When I am communicating about evidence to support the work that I do, I often cite the following review that combined the results of thirty-seven studies on the effects of MT:
Reductions of trait anxiety and depression following a course of treatment were MT’s largest effects. The average MT participant experienced a reduction of trait anxiety that was greater than 77% of comparison group participants, and a reduction of depression that was greater than 73% of comparison group participants. These effects are similar in magnitude to those found in meta-analyses examining the absolute efficacy of psychotherapy.2
I also work with individuals who are experiencing other kinds of pain beside low back pain. One of the most common pain complaints that I work with is neck pain. Unfortunately there is not the same level of scientific or statistical validation for the work I do with neck pain as for my work with low back pain. There is a Cochrane review on MT for neck pain and its authors conclude that “[N]o recommendations for practice can be made at this time because the effectiveness of massage for neck pain remains uncertain”.3 The authors point out that most of the studies on MT and neck pain at the date of their review were low quality. This is an area of MT practice that clearly needs more good quality research. One of the common criticisms of the early studies conducted on massage and neck pain is that the study protocols poorly reflected the way in which therapeutic massage is usually delivered and thus the results of those studies that show little benefit may not reflect the real world.4
This issue was addressed in a good quality study published more recently than the Cochrane review regarding massage and neck pain. When considering the scientific or statistical validation for the work that I do with individuals with neck pain I often refer to the study published in 2009 in the Clinical Journal of Pain that demonstrated that “therapeutic massage has clinically important benefits at least in the short term for persons with chronic neck pain”4. They demonstrated that individuals with chronic neck pain who received therapeutic massage showed statistically significant improvements in pain and functional status as compared to the control group particularly during the ten week treatment period. This same base of evidence is used to support a declaration that “massage is effective in adults for chronic low back pain and chronic neck pain” in the recently published document Effectiveness of manual therapies: the UK evidence report.5
So I feel confident in citing the evidence to support the work that I do with people with chronic neck pain and to justify the cost of these services. But what about the work that I do with reducing people’s experience of pain in general? Is there scientific or statistical validation to justify the cost of the services that I provide for pain reduction? YES. I will point again to the Moyer et al (2004) review. The authors concluded that when pain outcomes were measured in the thirty-seven MT studies it is shown that “MT participants who received a course of treatment and were assessed several days or weeks after treatment ended exhibited levels of pain that were lower, on average, than 62% of comparison group participants”.2
The studies analyzed in this review with respect to pain reduction included both healthy people receiving MT and those struggling with a variety of health issues receiving MT. So, I feel confident saying YES, there is scientific or statistical validation for the work I do in reducing pain. Is there scientific or statistical validation for my work with clients who have knee pain from osteoarthritis. YES! A good study was published in 2006 titled “Massage therapy for osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized controlled trial.”6 What if my work on any given day is with cancer patients? YES! There are several large scale studies including recommendation for MT for pain and anxiety within an integrative oncology clinical practice guideline.7
For my work interests the list of research publications to scientifically or statistically validate the work that I do goes on. I doubt that my work is particularly unique among the community of MTAS members. Maybe some of the reader’s work is truly more unique. Do you work with clients with HIV/AIDs to improve their quality of life? Is there scientific or statistical validation for the work you do and justification for the cost of your services? YES!.8
So why state that there is no scientific or statistical validation for the work we do? I thank you Mr. Barry for initiating this discussion. I cannot agree that there is no scientific or statistical validation for the work that I do – the evidence does not support that claim. Many “someones” have published research to “justify the cost to cover those services”. Yes, we need more research and funding for research. Just as importantly, as a professional group, we need to communicate to decision-makers about the available evidence that validates the work we do and justifies payment for our work.
Due to the gallant efforts of our Association’s leaders and administrators in negotiating access to the Saskatchewan Health Information Resources Partnership (SHIRP) all this research information is available at our fingertips: https://www.shirp.ca/
I understand that many MTs (around the world) are challenged by the process of looking up research information. If MTAS members would like help in this – I would be delighted to offer my aid. But I will warn the readers: once you start searching for and reading research articles online, it becomes as addictive as Facebook.

Donelda Gowan-Moody, RMT, BA (Hons), MSc
d.gowanmoody@usask.ca

References:
1. Furlan AD, Imamura M, Dryden T, Irvin E. Massage for low-back pain. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2008, Issue 4.
2. Moyer CA, Rounds J, Hannum JW. A Meta-analysis of Massage Therapy Research. Psychological Bulletin. 2004;130(1):3-18.
3. Haraldsson B, Gross A, Myers CD, Ezzo J, Morien A, Goldsmith CH, Peloso PMJ, Brønfort G, Cervical Overview Group. Massage for mechanical neck disorders. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2006, Issue 3
4. Sherman KJ, Cherkin DC, Hawkes RJ, Miglioretti DL, Deyo RA. Randomized trial of therapeutic massage for neck pain. Clin J Pain 2009; 25(3):233-238
5. Bronfert G, Haas M, Evans R, Leininger B, Triano J. The effectiveness of manual therapies: the UK evidence report. Chiropractic & Osteopathy 2010;18(3).
6. Perlman AI, Sabina A, Williams A, Yanchou Njike V, Katz D.L. Massage therapy for osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized controlled trial. Arch Intern Med. 2006;166:2533-2538.
7. Deng GE et al. Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for integrative oncology: complementary therapies and botanicals. J Society for Integrative Oncol. 2009;7(3):85-120.
8. Hillier SL, Louw Q, Morris L, Uwimana J, Statham S. Massage therapy for people with HIV/AIDS. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2010, Issue 1
 

AGM 2012 - SAVE THE DATE

The 2012 Annual General Meeting will be in Regina on Sunday, February 26th at the Travelodge Hotel on Albert Street South.
Please save the date!
More details to follow closer to the event.

We are hosting 2 workshops in conjuntion with the AGM:
Doug Alexander's TMJ Master Class
and
MTAS Examiner Training

Please refer to the articles below for more details.

  

Judy Smith Advanced Trigger Point Workshop

Judy Smith, RMT - "Advanced Trigger Point Technique for Lower Body" 
12 SPACES LEFT.

Saturday, September 17th and Sunday, September 18th, 2011
9:00am to 5:00pm each day with one hour lunch break
At Ramada Hotel and Golf Dome – 806 Idylwyld Drive North, Saskatoon

14 primary credits

$375.00 if paid in full after June 30th (subject to space availability)
OR
$400.00 for non-MTAS members

Registrations will be accepted on a first come, first served basis and spaces will not be held without payment.  Limited class size - first 32 people to register will be accepted. Minimum 16 therapists required.

CLICK HERE FOR THE REGISTRATION FORM

Please bring massage table, linens, towel and lotion and dress comfortably for hands-on work.
Cancellations before August 30th - full refund less $50.00 administration fee; cancellations after August 30th – no refunds will be given.

TRIGGER POINT TECHNIQUE
Myofascial trigger points are formed in muscles, tendons and ligaments by direct trauma, acute overload and overwork fatigue. They are also a tissue reaction to various kinds of stress, postural distortions, joint dysfunction, visceral disease etc. ANY condition that causes tissue stress, either acute short term or over the long term, will cause the formation of trigger points, with resultant pain, dysfunction and contraction or rigidity of tissue.

This workshop focuses on hands-on practical skills including: enhancing palpation skills; zeroing in on primary TPs; TPs in ligaments; the correlation of TPs/muscle groups to pathological conditions; prevention of negative reactions; specific treatment of all muscle groups and perpetuating factors. The application, being gentle and relatively painless, makes it easier on both therapist and patient.

Cadaver Lab with Dr. Mohamed

We are very pleased that Dr. Mohamed has once again agreed to host a Cadaver Lab for our members.  This is a privilege that our members have enjoyed for many years, and we sincerely appreciate the opportunity to continue to work with the University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine.

MTAS Cadaver Workshop - by Dr. Adel Mohamed
University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon
3rd floor - 107 Wiggins Road, Health Sciences Building

“Muscles of the Head & Neck”
Sunday, November 6th, 2011
Time:   9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Cost:   $130.00 GST included, prepaid & non-refundable
Credits:  8 primary CEU’s
Lunch:  Pizza, pop and water included

First 30 people to register will be accepted.  Register early to guarantee your spot.  Please bring a notebook. 
You MUST wear a lab coat (new U of S rule).  MTAS has 12 lab coats available to rent for $5.00 each – pre-book and pay with your workshop registration (first come, first served).

Click here for the registration form.

Doug Alexander TMJ Workshop

TMJ: HEAD, NECK AND JAW MASTER CLASS WITH DOUG ALEXANDER
The Regina workshop is already over half-full; there is lots of space still available in the Saskatoon workshop. 
Both will be offered back-to-back during the last week of February, 2012:
- Tuesday 21st & Wednesday 22nd in Saskatoon - click here for registration form.  LOTS OF SPACES LEFT.
- Friday 24th & Saturday 25th in Regina (in conjunction with the AGM) - click here for registration form. THERE IS ONLY 1 SPACE LEFT IN THE REGINA CLASS.

Workshop cost:
$350.00 if paid in full before September 2nd
$400.00 if paid in full after September 2nd
$425.00 2-payment plan (see registration forms for details)

14 primary credits per workshop

Curriculum outline:
Mechanics and Pathomechanics of the TMJ
Elevator Muscle Evaluation and Treatment
Restoring Normal Head and Neck Alignment
Categories of TMJ Dysfunction
Treatment Planning and Referral

Overcome your “fear of the dark” in this two day seminar!
We thoroughly explore the anatomy and function of the TMJ. Participants gain confidence and specificity in evaluating and treating clients with clenching, grinding, clicking and popping in their jaws.

You will leave this course with new skills and … an envelope of examination gloves to begin treating clients the next day in your office.

Doug Alexander has been a massage therapist since 1985. He has explored the mouth and TMJ (his own and others) for most of his professional life. Enjoy yourself and learn new skills in an atmosphere of specificity and caring.

What MTAS members are saying about Doug's previous workshops:
“This was an excellent course and I will be able to put it to use easily.”

“Awesome! More than I expected and will be utilized immediately. Thanks!”

“I love this course. Doug has such a passion and love for what he is teaching. You can feel his dedication. It is a must for your massage practice.”

“This workshop provided me with information and techniques that I can IMMEDIATELY be able to apply. There was more than enough “hands-on” time and instruction that I feel well equipped to safely apply the knowledge.”

“I truly enjoyed the entire course. My mind was blown away within the first half-hour of the training. I feel confident to take these technique into my practice. Doug’s teaching method and his enthusiasm were infectious. I will look forward to being a part of any future courses offered. I feel mentally rejuvenated! Thank you!”

“I really enjoyed this class - the time passed quickly. We did not sit too long at one time - the movement and lots of table work was great."
 

Examiner Training

Over the past year the Education Committee has been working on revising the MTAS Practical Board Examination format.
After consultation with a group of our regular examiners, representatives from two of the Saskatchewan massage therapy schools and members of the MTAS Board of Directors, the Committee has developed an entirely new practical examination format.
The purpose for this change was to make the exam more representative of a real-life clinic experience, to allow the candidates more opportunity to demonstrate their competency, strengths and abilities, and to align our exam with the National Competency Standards document from The National Consortium of Massage Therapy Regulators.

We are pleased to advise that we are offering training in the new exam format on the following date: 
When:  Saturday, February 25th, 2012
Time:  Tentatively 8:00am – 5:00pm (to be confirmed closer to the date)
Where:  Travelodge Hotel, Regina (in conjunction with AGM on February 26th)
Cost:  $125.00 (incl. GST)

Please note that MTAS cannot pay expenses for travel, accommodation or meals. 
This training session is limited to a maximum of 40 therapists.
You must have been practicing for at least 3 years in order to be eligible to become an examiner.
If you are a massage therapy school owner/instructor, school examiner, or MTAS Education Committee member, you are ineligible to become an examiner due to conflict of interest.

It is costly and time-consuming to train members to be examiners.  We therefore expect that if you take the training, you will be available to work at least one of the Board Exams each year, as follows:
• Summer – Saskatoon exam – second weekend in June.
• Summer – Regina exam – last weekend in June.
• Winter – Saskatoon only – second weekend in December.

We currently pay examiners a flat rate of $35.00 per hour.
Only therapists who have taken the training in the new format will be eligible to participate as examiners for the MTAS Board Examinations.  If you wish to train as an examiner, please complete and return the attached application form.  We thank you for your consideration and look forward to receiving your application.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the office at 306-384-7077 or mtas@sasktel.net.
 

Are You Willing To Be The Tall Poppy

Are You Willing To Be The Tall Poppy?

I have been doing some thinking about this topic for a while now, and have made reference to it in a previous article.  It is something that I cannot seem to get out of my mind, especially when it pertains to our industry.

The question is, as above “Are You Willing To Be The Tall Poppy?”  Well, what exactly does that mean?  What it means is are you willing to stand above the rest of those around you?  Are you willing to stick your neck out?  Are you willing to lead the way? Are you going to do something different no matter what those around you say? Are you going to trust yourself enough to go your own way, and create a path for those behind you?  The thing about being the tall poppy is that you will always be the one that gets lopped off first when the lawnmower of life comes around.  Are you willing to take that chance, and do you have the strength and courage to grow again to become the tall poppy again, and again, and again…………

In working with Massage Therapists over the years, I have seen a lot of average, mediocre, and middle of the pack poppies, that don’t seem to want to grow above the rest of the pack.  I have also seen some that have stood above the rest, and stood tall and proud.  So, what makes one therapist stand out above the rest, and the other one keep with the status quo?  What was the reason that you went into this business in the first place?  And just saying “to help people” is no answer to that question as it is too generic.  Why did you really get into this industry?  What was that defining moment that made you say YES, this is what I want to do!  If you want to be the tall poppy, go back to that moment to WHY you got into the business in the first place, and then build your business around that. Take continued education in what it is that excites you, what you are passionate about, go back to WHY you got involved in the first place.  If you keep that as your focal point, and keep honing your skill, telling everyone about it, and then put it into practice, in time, you will become the tall poppy.  Should you become the tall poppy in what you do, people will seek you out, and you won’t have to go looking for business any longer, business will come to you.  The catch with this is that this has to always continue, it never stops, and if it does, you are no longer the tall poppy!  Do you have the tenacity, courage and strength to keep going when the lawnmower of life comes your way?  I hope so, for the benefit of your patients, your colleagues, and for yourself!

To your success,

Warren Barry, R.M.T.

Warren Barry is the Clinical Director, Owner, and Massage Therapist at Regina Rehab & Family Medical Clinic and President and Founder of Instinctive Solutions Inc. located in Regina, Sk.  You can check out the website at www.reginarehab.com.  Warren can be contacted via e-mail at warren.barry@reginarehab.com or at warren@instinctivesolutions.ca.

Con-Ed Window

There is now one year left in the current Con-Ed window.
The window runs from November 1st, 2009 to October 31st, 2012.

If you have completed any workshops or classes during this period, we do encourage you to submit your proof of attendance to the office on an on-going basis, rather than waiting until the end of the window. This allows us to provide you with an accurate credit count, as well as avoiding delays and membership suspensions resulting from late submissions.
 

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL TIME IS HERE AGAIN

Your membership renewal form for 2011-2012 has been mailed out (or is included with this newsletter for those of you who receive the printed version).  If you have not received the package or have misplaced it, please let us know and we would be happy to fax or e-mail a replacement to you.  The registration form is also available on the MTAS website. (From the home page, go to “Forms” and select the file from the list).

As always, our membership year runs from November 1st to October 31st.  All members are required to complete the annual renewal form (Bylaw 9.1) and return it to the MTAS office.  As has been the case for the past 5 years, renewals by telephone are no longer permitted.  Your renewal will not be confirmed until we receive the fully completed form.   Please note that you can send in your renewal with a post-dated cheque at any time now - there is no need to wait until October.  As in the past, renewals received after December 1st, 2011 are subject to a $50.00 per month late fee and late renewals may be subject to removal from the MTAS register.

If you do not intend to renew your membership, please send us written notification so that we do not send needless reminder notices.

Just a reminder that for those of you carry your liability and malpractice insurance with Dusyk & Barlow, you are no longer required to send in a copy of your certificate of insurance.  Dusyk & Barlow will confirm directly with the MTAS office those members who have renewed their insurance.  If you use a broker other than Dusyk & Barlow, please note that you must still send proof of insurance along with your membership renewal.

We would appreciate you completing all sections of the membership form in order that we may maintain accurate and complete membership records.   This will ensure that you receive all membership information in a timely manner.  For some members, this is the only communication we have with you each year, so it is important that the information is correct.  Please remember that you can update your "find a therapist" listing and other personal profile details via our website, by logging into the members only section with you username and password; however at this time we do not have the facility to renew your membership on-line.
 
In an attempt to be more environmentally friendly and reduce postage costs, we are now sending as much correspondence as possible via e-mail.  Please check the appropriate box on the renewal form so that in future we can use your preferred method of communication.  We strongly encourage all members with e-mail addresses to choose electronic communication.  Among other things, this newsletter is designed to be sent electronically, so you do not get the full benefit of all the features when you receive the printed version.  
 

Touch U News

Doug Alexander's Working in the Mouth: TMJ Master Class courses are filling up fast for February 2012! Get a step up on the course by taking his Masseter Muscle course online at: http://www.massagetherapypractice.com/courses/details.php?c=13

Doug is hard at work on his Low Back, Pelvis and Lower Extremity Nerve Mobilization Home Study Course. It is based on his DVD of the same name.  The course is designed to take about 8 hours to complete and should be available by the end of September at http://www.TouchU.ca.  The course is free for all MTAS members. It does require the studying of Doug's DVD. If you don't already have one, you can purchase one at http://www.massagetherapypractice.com/products/details.php?p=9.  The cost of all products at TouchU.ca is reduced by 10% for all MTAS members, when you have created your account and logged in using the MTAS Association code.

Also upcoming soon will be the third installment of Cathy Ryan's comprehensive Exploring Fascia Series: Part 3: Fascial Neurology and Fasciagenic Pain, including: neurofascial envelopes, sensory nerves, nociceptors, mechanoreceptors, proprioception, fluid dynamics and fascial placticity.
Cathy's previous Fascia articles are at: http://www.massagetherapypractice.com/courses/details.php?c=34 and http://www.massagetherapypractice.com/courses/details.php?c=35

Here is a sample of some of the writing for the upcoming Nerve Mobilization Online Course:

Three Essential Questions  
DVD Reference: Introduction: 3:30 – 4:48

Your client experience frames and informs all treatment. As soon as you create new sensations in your client, back off the last sensitizing motion slightly and ask three questions.

What did you feel?
This question about the character of the symptoms guides you to determining whether it is likely that the sheath of the nerve is affected or if conduction of the nerve is affected. The sheath of the nerve is connective tissue, so when it is irritated it will produce familiar types of feelings such as aching, pulling, pressure, and sometimes bruised feelings. When the nerve`s ability to conduct information is affected by the test, then the client will report `nervy`feelings such as tingling, numbness, zinging and shock-like symptoms.

This information is vital in framing the treatment in terms of irritability as well as targeting the tissue(s) that are most likely causing your client discomfort.

Where did you feel it?
The location of aching, pulling and pressure symptoms are often the location at which the client’s nervous system is compromised. In this location, the nerve is often short, inelastic and or tethered to an adjacent tissue such as a muscle, ligament, fascial arch or bone.

It is important to note the location of sensations of tingling and numbness as this often indicates the nerve that is affected. The location of tingling and numbness may also indicate the location of the main dysfunction or simply be referred from dysfunction anywhere proximally along the length of the nerve.

How long did it last?
The length of time it takes for symptoms to abate (disappear) after a test causes them is the most important measure of irritability of your clients condition. In a non-irritable condition symptoms ought to disappear as soon as you take the stress out of the system by backing off the sensitizing movement. Non-irritable conditions are typified by altered neurobiomechanics; nerves are mechanically affected in some way, but are usually fairly easily treated and the problem resolved.

Symptoms that take 2 or 3 seconds to abate are an indication that the condition is on the threshold of irritability. In these situations, the nerve is usually inflamed close to the location that you have stressed with the final sensitizing movement. You need to have some experienced skills and to handle the client very carefully if you choose to continue assessing at this point.

Symptoms that take more than 3 seconds to abate, as well as symptoms that “thrum” through the client after the testing is completed indicate a very irritable situation which will need to be addressed immediately to lessen the client’s irritability and give them some relief.

 

 

Volunteer News

WHAT HAVE MTAS MEMBERS BEEN DOING THIS SUMMER?

Rona MS Bike Tour - August 13th     Submitted by Katherine Salberg, RMT

                      

L-R: WCRMT student therapist Rob Close; RMTs Adrianna Gair and Katherine Salberg

It was a beautiful morning, endless blue sky, warm temps,  bit of a breeze, a perfect summer day.  As I drove closer to Watrous and Manitou Beach, I was prepared to meet cyclists by the many signs posted along the highway.  Then I saw hundreds of oncoming cyclists, all ages and abilities, riding with purpose.  Upon arrival at the RONA MS Bike Tour finish area, I met fellow RMT Adrianna and student massage therapist Rob.  KarenAnn Milne (Regina) and the MS crew and many volunteers had been working  hard all morning to get quite a few tents set up for the riders.  We were treated to sub-sandwiches in the refreshment gardens for lunch then it was over to our tent to await the first arriving cyclists - this began a very busy afternoon for us under KarenAnn's watchful scheduling eye! 

KarenAnn had fresh, cool, epsom salt foot baths ready for each rider so that he or she could relax and soak while waiting for a post-event massage.  What a great perk to end the afternoon!  Cyclists told us they had a head-wind going out on the road but a very nice tail-wind on the return ride!  They were taken very good care of throughout the event, and everyone we spoke to was happy with their 50 or 100 km.  Even if they had a few aches at the finish, most were planning to ride again the next day.  Each rider was so appreciative of their short massage, I was humbled.  We were invited to the banquet held at the historic Danceland Hall, the meal was very delicious and enjoyable!  As I looked around at the hundreds of participants and their supporting friends and families, the phrase "Good food, good company, good times" and a "Good cause" came to mind!  A ton of money was raised on the 2011 RONA MS Bike Tour - Manitou Beach, over $240,000! 

You can follow  the MS Society of Canada Sask. Division on Facebook and on their website for updates with photos, their Gearing Down newsletter and fundraising totals.  I encourage RMT's to check out events in their communities and do a little volunteering -it's good for the receiver and good for the RMT's soul.               

 

---

Mogathon Massage - Submitted by Al Bodnarchuk RMT, SMTc (Mogathon Massage Coordinator)

A big thank you goes out to the following Massage Therapists who worked at the Mogathon Run on June 25th, 2011.
Thanks to Calvin Haeusler, Casey Galenzoski and Bob Lidington.  The massages provided to the runners after the run were a big success.
Money raised went to the Les & Irene Dube Urology Centre of Health, Saskatoon SPCA and the Children’s Wish Foundation. Next years run will be June 23rd, 2012. Anyone able to help out please contact me at alhome@hotmail.com.
Thank you for your attention.
 

Jessica's Tech Corner

Data Security and Your Massage Therapy Practice

Hello Everyone,

Data security in your massage therapy practice should be a very high priority for you. Client records, your clinic’s financial data and other confidential information need to be shielded from unauthorized access, theft, corruption and loss. The following questions and answers are intended to inform you , the reader, of a number of common security concerns and the related protective measures.

What is data security?
Data security is the generic term that is used to describe the protection of personal, client and company information. A massage therapist must employ data security measures that comply with relevant government regulations and recognized “Good business practices”. These measures apply to both paper files and paperless or electronic record keeping solutions.

What are some common data security threats?
Both paper and electronic files are subject to physical theft or destruction by fire, flood and other natural forces. Unauthorized access to the data is another threat that needs to be protected against. Unauthorized individuals can include your clients, facility cleaners, family members / roommates (if files are stored in a home office environment) and Internet hackers.

What can I do to minimize the risks?
Below are some security issues that a practitioner needs to take into account for both paper and electronic record keeping solutions.

Paper records require secure facilities, fireproofing measures, anti-theft precautions, access protection as well as file duplication and storage. Alarming systems, locked-down filing cabinets and duplicate off-site secure storage are among the “Must-haves”.

Electronic record keeping is the most common form of information storage. While some people believe that paper records are safer than electronic records, electronic records can be much more secure and far easier to manage.  In addition to physically protecting your office software and hardware, you must perform daily backups of your data and store a copy “Off-site” at another secure location. If your PC is connected to the Internet, be sure to install a firewall to protect it against Internet predators. Be sure to utilize username and password “Best practices” at all times.

Increasingly, therapists rely on affordable professional, third party services to provide secure Internet based practice management solutions. These services can include the input, storage and management of your data practice-wide, such as on-line appointment scheduling, client records keeping, SOAP notes and financial record keeping and reporting. The data is stored in secure specialized data centers utilizing state-of the art firewalls and server technology. They should include daily data back up and off-site storage duplication, thus removing these burdens from the practice owner.

These service providers should incorporate the following security precautions to protect your data:

1) Utilize state of the art firewall, intrusion detection and prevention technology in front of the servers that house your data.
2) Maintain strict physical protection and minimized access precautions.
3) Utilize SSL data encryption (the encryption technology used by your financial institution for online banking transactions). This protects the data that is sent between your local computer and the data center’s server during transmission.
4) Sign-in protection. Prior to allowing access to your practice’s data the valid username and password must be authenticated.
Sign-in Best Practices: Always use best practices when choosing your system password. Use a minimum of 8 characters made up of a combination of upper and lower case characters, a symbol and includes at least one numerical digit. Change your password frequently.
5) Inactivity log-out. When you are inactive for a specified period of time, the system should log you out and require re-entry of your correct username and password. This will protect your data if you walk away from your PC and forget to sign-out.

Reliable practice management solutions are available that provide these important security essentials.

Until next time, be well!   

Submitted by Jessica Foster – mindZplay Solutions Inc.
mindZplay Solutions is a leading provider of massage therapy websites and practice management solutions.
To learn more about mindZplay solutions for Massage Therapists visit us at www.massagemanedger.com or call toll free 888-373-6996.

IBP Test

IBP Test - submitted by Ed Liepert, RMT

Editor's note - the following is an opinion submitted by a member and  MTAS neither endorses nor rejects this information.  Members are encouraged to formulate their own responses and to contact the author with any questions.

It is of interest in reviewing the many books and articles on LBP, low back pain, that little or no mention is made of the thigh musculature or testing the IBP, innominate bone positions. 

To find information on the effect  of the position of the innominate bones on low back pain, you can review such highly regarded books as those edited by Andry Vleeming of Holland with titles such as MOVEMENT, STABILITY AND LOW BACK PAIN or MOVEMENT, STABILITY AND LUMBOPELVIC PAIN - integration of research and therapy.  Both of which are considered Hallmark productions of the latest of the greatest minds on low back or lumbopelvic pain.  These contain research papers and research articles by some of the "greatest" minds in various disciplines of therapy, such as Stuart McGill ( author of LOW BACK Disorders - Evidence-based Prevention and Rehabilitation)  of the U of Waterloo in Canada as well as those from around the world.   Other authors similarly show little or no regard for the innominate bones or their positions or the adductor group of muscles such as the much renowned manual by Dos Winkel titled DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF THE SPINE or Canada's own Diane Lee author of The Pelvic Girdle.  Search as you may through the book or its appendix or index, you will find little or no mention of the adductor group of musculature and their effect on the pelvis or low back or LBP in any of these.

I have talked with most of these people.  The lack of knowledge of the innominate bone positions and the relevance to low back pain is actually astonishing.  Stuart Mcgill of the University of Waterloo is trying to get a graduate student to do research on the subject as he feels that it may be of great significance.  As of yet, he has not found a student capable of doing the research.

What I have found that the present success rates for LBP in trial after trial is dismal. From a low of 27% in the Archive of Internal Medicine of September 2007 to similar in the BMJ, British Medical Journal of 2004 and 2006 to the highest rating of 45% in a survey by a secular magazine.  This is unacceptable.

What I have found in practice, is that the IBP test is very significant.  I do a test called the IBP test with hip ABD (abduction).  This test shows how the left and right innominate bones move relative to each other as hip ABD progresses. It is fascinating to see the forces that effect the innominate bones as hip ABD progresses.  Ola Grimsby of the USA has shown interest in the test and how the results of this test impact on the treatment protocol.  He had me give a presentation in Seattle on this subject and is having a graduate student research the test and treatment protocol for a research paper.

The test is easy and can be done by most. IT is simply using the PSIS and ASIS landmarks with hip ABD from a closed stance to full hip ABD obtainable by the person being tested at 25 cm increments.  The landmarks are PSIS to PSIS, ASIS to ASIS and PSIS to ASIS (R&L) as hip ABD progresses.

It is of interest that the IAOM of Europe ( Source: communication with Omer Mattijs of the IAOM) as of now feels that SI joint testing is irrelevant and does not teach it any more.  The present feeling is that the SIJ testing does not produce results that can be used to produce a viable treatment protocol.  Will we finally see the importance of where the innominate bones are and how they stress the SIJ to produce pain???

I hope that we are seeing a turn around from the Gillet test or stork test and other supposed SIJ tests that are supposed to give conclusive results on the condition of the SIJ, when they have never been able to do that.  In fact, they mislead the practitioner and are counterproductive.  I would call them bogus testing.  The move in physiotherapy is away from SIJ testing. Should that be our direction as well?  I am positive that it should be. 

I demonstrated the IBP test to two chiropractors and they both admitted that it will be necessary to rethink their present ideas on test results for the SIJ. 

For low back pain, the need is more than the supposed "core muscles" or treating the low back as a separate entity of rubbing the area or manipulating the area or, as surgeons do, cutting apart the area.  The need is to look at the bigger picture than just the low back or the SI joint.  It is to see the effect of the thigh and esp. the adductor group on the position of the innominate bones in an IBP test.  Then, to see how this affects the treatment protocol.

Ed Liepert of DTIAS. Contact at dtias@sasktel.net

 

 

Breast Health Update

Breast Health Update from Pam Fichtner, RMT

Editor's note - the following is a report submitted by a member.  Members are encouraged to formulate their own responses and to contact the author with any questions.

The 6th World Conference on Breast Cancer was held in Hamilton, Ontario from June 7-11th, 2011.  It is an open conference welcoming people from all backgrounds - breast cancer survivors, advocates, researchers, doctors, and other health care practitioners. It occurs every 3 years in Canada with up to 500 people in attendance. It is educational, sometimes emotionally upsetting, but also fun. It is for people who are concerned about breast cancer to share common issues that impact on survival and quality of life, and to advance global action on breast cancer.

I presented a workshop entitled “Breast Massage: Optimizing Breast Health” with a wonderful travel donation of $200.00 from MTAS. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to share my knowledge about breast massage and to have some financial remuneration to do it. Thanks so much to the MTAS board for making the decision to support a member in educating the public.

My power point presentation was about 40 minutes, after which I performed a 10 minute demonstration of breast massage and showed them some self-massage techniques. They were then able to ask me any questions that they had about breast massage. The information that I gathered in order to do this presentation has come from many sources; most notably "Breast Massage" by Debra Curties; my WCCMT instructors, varied readings and journal articles, and the case 'herstories' from my clinical experience. Also, the articles I have researched and written for Kinesis and Wholife and which have been referenced in Chatelaine. I have also taken many classes, such as lymphatic drainage, which focus on breast health. Presently, I teach it at McKay's Massage and Hydrotherapy school, and provide on-going breast health workshops and home parties in Saskatoon.

Breast Presentation excerpts:
Breast massage by a massage therapist is an empowering, nurturing, holistic treatment that can benefit all women.  It helps women to maintain breast health, physically and emotionally, through positive awareness of their own breast tissue.  Massage and lymphatic drainage are also central to post-cancer recovery. It is important to learn self-massage techniques and honor your breasts! (Of course, it can also be helpful for men but of all the treatments I've provided, it has been 100% women).

It is important in helping women to develop an intimate relationship with their breasts – a high risk and often neglected body area. Whether from a therapist or by trained self-massage, it is pro-active, comforting, and therapeutic. It puts women “in touch” with what they feel in their breasts. It is a critical tool to prevention of breast cancer as it increases awareness of women's own breast health. If taught by a trained practitioner to know and feel their breast tissue, women can be better equipped to notice any changes that may occur.  Soothing, respectful attention is the key. It's not just about looking for what is potentially cancerous but valuing and sensing the nuances of women's breast tissue. It helps them to understand what they are palpating, whether it's normal breast changes or more extensive damage such as scar tissue pain. And, it helps with body image, self-esteem and trauma recovery (everything from recovery from breast cancer surgery to sexual abuse trauma).
   
In my massage practice I use breast massage and lymphatic drainage for many breast conditions - to maintain healthy breasts, reduce risk of disease, and to provide post-surgery care (lumpectomy, mastectomy, implants). It increases range of motion, decreases scar tissue formation, decreases lymphedema, induces relaxation, and creates an integrated, holistic body experience. Educating women about this most vital healthcare option is my passion. 
So, for those of you massage therapists who have already been taught breast massage and are actively doing it, I applaud you!  And, for those who are in the grey zone of wanting to perform it but not feeling comfortable, please give me a call and we can do some one-on-one teaching sessions or I could teach another post-graduate class if there's enough interest.   For those who don't want to provide breast massage, you can always refer to those of us who do offer it!

Breast Health Testimonials: 
Here is some feedback that my clients provided to me so that conference participants could learn from their experiences. They have all have had positive experiences with me, and would probably garner the same responses from any other massage therapist who provided specific breast massage treatments.

Breast pain – BM.  Dr. Jacqui Fleury, my naturopathic physician, suggested I try breast massage as a means to hopefully relieve periodic breast pain. I have had lumpy breasts for many years and the right one in particular would get very sore and feel as though there were pins sticking it. I am delighted to report that since going to Pam I have not had pain or tenderness.

Lumpectomy - MW.  I have been having monthly breast massage for the last year and a half. I went to Pam after a DCIS diagnosis and lumpectomy and radiation therapy. I often had sensitivity in the area of my scar as well as scar tissue as a result of previous lumpectomies. Since I have been having breast massage my tissue is smooth with little evidence of scar tissue. I rarely feel sensitivity or have tender breasts. Pam also does lymph drainage. Since my radiation therapy and surgery I have had 2 thermographies and 2 mammograms. The mammograms have been clear. One of my breasts now registers as a 1 and the other a 3 which I attribute to continued positive breast massage and treatment.

Breast Health Maintenance - a massage therapist.  I have started breast massage as part of my program for self-care and to prevent conditions from developing and increase awareness about breast health. I am not great at self-examination and this is a way to educate myself about that.

Mastectomy - DR.  Breast massage has been a healing part of my recovery journey. It feels relaxing and energizing at the same time and it's amazing to focus positive attention on an area of my body that I have been "fighting" for the past year. My arm and chest feel lighter when I leave a session and mentally I feel positive and refreshed.

Benign Breast Papillomas – GP.  Prior to seeing Pam four years ago, I had severe fibrocystic breast disease and lots of breast pain.  Since I have been seeing Pam on a monthly basis, my breast disease has improved significantly! I am not experiencing the pain, congestion and bumps and lumps that I had in the past. I have also seen an incredible improvement as documented through Breast Thermography. I owe so much to Pam for her competence, love and compassion that she has provided through her treatment sessions. I think every woman should make breast massage a part of their regular breast routine. I know it has changed my breast health!

Breast Maintenance – JH.  I first heard about Pam from my sister who sees her on a regular basis since 2009 because of breast cancer. She talked to me often and invited me to a “breast health” party she was hosting for Pam. I’m very glad that I attended the party as that was the deciding factor to start going for a monthly breast massage. After attending the party it made perfect sense to me to have “breast health” care. You take care of the rest of your body so why not your breasts? I consider Pam a “tool in my tool box” for my breast health care including checking for lumps, changes, etc. She is always so calm, peaceful and caring.  I look forward to seeing her monthly!!

Mastectomy/Metastatic Cancer – LC.  I suspect that I was like most women in my initial reaction to breast massage. "Let a stranger touch my 'boobs' - not a chance". And so it took breast cancer, mastectomy, radiation, scarring and lymphedema to propel me to seek relief at the hands of a skilled practitioner. I wish I had grown up decades earlier!  The breast massage promoted improved lymphatic drainage, relief from the tight, scarred chest muscle and tissue and helped relax me overall. From adolescence I had experienced tight, swollen, congested breasts on a monthly basis. As I aged I was prone to fibroids and 'lumpy' feeling breasts. Breast massage, I am now convinced, could have alleviated my symptoms. Moreover, I would most likely have had much greater body awareness and may have picked up on the breast changes that were not the 'same old, same old' irritations that I had come to expect of my breasts and therefore I would have had an earlier diagnosis of my breast cancer.  Body awareness and self-responsibility are the cornerstones of early detection of breast cancer and I believe breast massage at the hands of a skilled practitioner is an important component for all women.

Highlights from the 6th World Conference on Breast Cancer: 

• A silent Walk of Hope for breast cancer awareness on the streets of Hamilton
• Fran Visco from The National Breast Cancer Coalition is setting a deadline to achieve the goal of ending breast cancer in 2020. They want to change the conversation in breast cancer- not much has changed; deaths still occurring.  It is a provocative, courageous approach to catalyze the research and all the stakeholders to work toward a completion date.. And, what's the worst that could happen? They not reach their goal and it still exists, but they want to work together with many groups to try to find a meaningful answer.  www.breastcancerdeadline2020.org
• Dr. Olopade from the Cancer Risk Clinic talked about Understanding the Role of Genetics, especially identifying the source of the ER-negative gene. She indicated that genetics don't determine everything; .0.1% is the sequence difference. Need to have a lifestyle approach - the social determinants - nurturing aspect, as well as the inherent gene pool.
• Dr. Freeman developed a Patient Navigation system in Harlem to help poor people meet significant barriers when they attempt to seek diagnosis and treatment of cancer. They experience more pain and suffering, especially because they come in at a late stage in their disease. He spoke about the difference between what we know and what we do; how there are barriers in the health care system in relationship to poverty and race. There is a critical disconnect between what we discover and how it is delivered. The challenge is to do the best that you can do, wherever you are; be patient-centered. Compassion and access are key.
• An International Panel spoke about the challenges and victories that they share in the breast cancer surgery. Many of them have health vans going to isolated areas to do mammograms and often their breast cancer is so advanced. In some extreme cases, the breast is so infected that they get the butcher to cut it off. There is also shame, humiliation, and isolation within the family and culture.
• Dr. Abdulbari Bener presented on The Importance of Breast Cancer awareness programs and the increased risk of it with respect to consanguinity in the Middle East region.
• Dr. Geoffrey Cannon concludes that 90-95% of breast cancer is preventable with diet, good weight, healthy physical activity, decreasing alcohol intake. It is also necessary to focus on behavior, social, political, environmental and economic causes- not just biology. He quoted Vuchow: 'Epidemics are the warning signs against which the quality of civilizations can be judged'. We need to act now to make changes - such as changing laws to regulate health policy. There is some new research pointing to the idea of prevention before birth- before conception or at breast-feeding time.
• Lucia Yiu spoke about whether breast self-examination can prevent breast cancer. She talked about the need to end the controversy on breast-self exam as an appropriate tool for early detection. It is easy to do but it must be well taught, as that was the potential issue of the initial research that indicated there may be harmful effects because of increased anxiety, more doctors’ visits etc. Women can make informed choices and be the guardians of their own health.
• Each One, Reach One is a program that Pamela Ratliff is involved in at the Stanford Cancer Centre. It focuses on community involvement in creating cancer educational programs.
• Sex - Let's Talk was a presentation by Janine Porter-Steele and Kim Walters about an Australian program. It focuses on the impact of breast cancer on a woman's sexuality and different ways of dealing with it.
• A naturopathic doctor from Switzerland, Rina Nissim, shared her insights about Primary Prevention being possible. She questioned the benefits of the mammogram and pointed to studies that show how these women can be over-diagnosed and breast cancer slightly increasing in that group. She has a good success rate of by looking at all factors - diet, hormonal, emotional, intestinal and environmental.
• Who Gets What? By Sue Keller-Olaman focused on how even though we have universal health care, survival rates are lower for those with income less than $20,000.
• The Power of Ayurveda, presented by Christine Gross was a great workshop focusing on the life force healing energy in our bodies and the importance of getting proper sleep, purification, digestion/diet and elimination. Sleep is so key to your health, especially between the hours of 10 pm to 2 am.
• Aiming for Better than Nobody Flinched - a lesbian breast cancer project by Christina Sinding focusing on the importance of legitimization of the relationship; to be including in the dialogue through all stages of the breast cancer experience.
• Breast Reconstruction: Is It For Me? By Dr. Arianna Dal Cin and Transcending the Breast Reconstruction Process by Lori Santoro. It is good for most women - 90% in Ontario choose it immediately at time of mastectomy. It can help psychologically to decrease anxiety and increase body image. Most often they wait until after radiation. Modified radical skin sparing is now the preferred type of surgery. With implants, 70% are silicone. Risk of rupture is 1 in 7; not rupturing as often now.  There are various flaps where skin can be taken from - lats, glutes, abdominals, inner thigh.
• Rona Shaw spoke on ' We Call Ourselves a Floating Support Group'. Breast Cancer Dragon Boating teams are a social movement that help many women with self-identity, femininity and body-image. Very important for emotional and social support.
• Another workshop I attended by Lori Greco was on how public health professionals receiving emails about breast  cancer education improved their understanding of up-to-date info that they could then forward to their health units regarding primary prevention and screening (the effectiveness of certain types of knowledge translation).
• Brain Fog, presented by Heather Palmer, acknowledges the cognitive concerns that occur with those who experience 'chemo brain'- truly accepting that it does exist (as some doctors have challenged it), understanding it and who can take ownership of working with it.
• Rethink Pink is an awesome organization that focuses on breast health awareness for younger women - doing great activities such as a documentary, dances, Breastfest and Facebook/Twitter dialoguing. Very exciting and engaging work.

Test Your Knowledge - Quiz

Quiz questions submitted by Aileen Tran Mapletoft and Navarra Good.
If you would like to submit questions for the November newsletter, please e-mail Jayne at the MTAS office. You must provide the questions, 4 answers (one being correct), and the references used to verify your material.

1. A bodybuilder trains hard and their muscles increase in size.  This is an example of muscle cell…..?
a. hypotrophy
b. hyperplasia
c. hypoplasia
d. hypertrophy

2. Otalgia is pain of what?
a. eye
b. tooth
c. ankle
d. ear

3. What is the most likely group of people to sustain head injury?
a. males aged 15-24
b. males aged 25-34
c. males and females aged 19-25
d. males aged 5-14

4. The supraspinatus tendon can be impinged between what two other shoulder structures?
a. acromion and acromioclavicular ligament
b. coraco-acromial ligament and clavicle
c. head of the humerus and coracoid process
d. coracoclavicular ligament and acromion

5. A client enters a treatment room with a cane in their right hand and a temporary cast on their left foot.  You notice the client seems unable to dorsiflex the left foot, flexes the hip and lifts their left leg high while walking.  This type of gait is called what?
a. steppage
b. drop foot
c. antalgic
d. festinating

6. List the erector spinae from lateral to medial:
a. longissimus, iliocostalis, spinalis
b. spinalis, iliocostalis, longissimus
c. iliocostalis, longissimus, spinalis
d. longissimus, spinalis, iliocostalis

7. Organs of Ruffini are a type of nerve tissue that are responsive to:
a. temperature and pain
b. cold
c. deep pressure
d. pressure and stretch

8. Hepatitis means:
a. Abnormal condition involving the hepatic duct
b. Inflammation of the liver
c. Narrowing of the stomach
d. Pertaining to the kidneys

9. The following pathogens are considered bacteria, EXCEPT:
a. Streptococci
b. Spirochetes
c. Staphylococci
d. Herpes simplex

10. Athlete’s foot is a type of:
a. Parasite infection
b. Bacterial infection
c. Fungal infection
d. Viral infection

11. Mites:
a. Cannot cause scabies
b. Leave itchy trails where they burrow under the skin
c. Prefer cold, dry places
d. Are very easy to see

12. The following statement is true regarding lice, EXCEPT:
a. Does not spread easily through direct contact
b. Human heat allows them to move quickly from scalp to scalp
c. Tend to be more sluggish when separated from a host
d. Can use hats and scarves to travel from one host to another

13. A second-degree burn:
a. Is mild irritation of the superficial epidermis
b. Can cause symptoms such as redness and blisters
c. Goes through the dermis or beyond
d. Causes whiteness and/or charring and a leathery texture of the skin

14. Signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia include the following, EXCEPT:
a. Widespread pain in shifting locations that is extremely difficult to pin down
b. Stiffness after rest
c. Very high pain tolerance
d. Nine predictable pairs of tender points distributed among all quadrants of the body

15. Hyperkyphosis:
a. Is a rotatory deviation of the spine
b. Is an overdeveloped lumbar curve
c. Is also referred to as swayback
d. Is an overdeveloped thoracic curve

ANSWERS ARE THE LAST ITEM IN THIS NEWSLETTER

Credit Card Fraud Protection

Taken from TD Merchant Service Newsletter - Spring 2011

There are several new developments currently taking place in Canada’s payment card industry.

Chip card update
The biggest change to the industry over the last several years has been the gradual migration to chip card technology. Since 2007,
when the first Canadian market trial was held, a significant number of chip cards have been introduced to Canadian consumers.
The changeover to chip technology is part of a nationwide initiative that all Canadian financial institutions, payment systems and merchants are embracing in order to help better protect Canadian consumers and merchants against fraud.  To ensure global acceptance, chip credit and debit cards will continue to have a magnetic stripe, as not all countries are adopting chip technology.

Liability shift
Canadian retailers who have switched to chip capable terminals will not be liable for the cost of fraud involving chip cards, so long as proper card-processing procedures and security practices are followed.  Accompanying the move to chip card technology is a shift in liability to merchants for credit card fraud involving Visa and MasterCard chip credit card transactions that are processed through a non-chip capable terminal. This came into effect for Canadian cards as of March 31, 2011.

Liability shift update
Due to changes to Visa and MasterCard regulations, you are now liable for all losses resulting from fraudulent Visa and MasterCard chip credit card transactions processed at non-chip capable terminals. This means that your account will be debited
for a loss caused by fraud, via a chargeback (regardless of whether you have a sales draft as proof of the sale).

How to prevent losses
If you have converted to a chip capable terminal, you can prevent losses and minimize chargebacks by following standard processing procedures, including the following:

• Make it automatic. When a customer presents a card for payment, make sure you process the transaction by following the terminal prompts (either to insert the chip card into the reader or swipe a non-chip card) — do not key in the transaction manually.
• Read the chip. When a chip card is presented by your customer, always process it as a chip transaction by inserting the card into the chip reader; do not revert back to swiping the magnetic stripe.
• Use caution with card-notpresent transactions. With chip technology reducing fraud in a face-to-face environment, the risk could increase for e-commerce and other card-not-present fraud (such as telephone or mail orders). To help reduce this risk, there are several security tools available designed specifically for off-site orders. See below - “How to prevent card-not-present fraud.”

The benefits of chip
The magnetic stripe will remain on credit and debit cards for some time to allow retailers sufficient time to make the transition to chip. However, all TD Merchant Services customers with countertop POS terminals have now been contacted to convert their
existing non-chip capable terminals to chip capable terminals.

Once you have been converted to a chip capable terminal, your business can enjoy the following benefits:

•  Speedier checkout.  The PIN used with a chip card is faster to input than a signature and does not require a verification call, saving you valuable time at checkout.
• Reduced chargebacks. If you and your staff follow terminal prompts and adhere to processing procedures, chip cards could potentially reduce your losses through chargebacks.
• Less paperwork. You no longer need to submit a paper sales draft for Sales Draft Requests — they have been eliminated for chip credit card transactions properly processed at a chip capable terminal.
• Increased security. The encrypted data on the chip card is difficult to access or copy, and the use of a PIN adds another layer of security.

How to prevent card-not-present fraud
Fraud involving e-commerce, telephone and mail order transactions (“remote transactions”) is on the rise in Canada, according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, in part because the enhanced security of chip and PIN technology has forced fraudsters to
shift their targets. Remote transactions also involve greater risk because the customer’s credit card is not presented to you, so the standard face-to-face security measures don’t apply.  There are several security tools available, however, that are specifically designed to reduce the fraud risk for card-not-present transactions.

• Address Verification Services (AVS). This service validates the address provided by the customer (for e-commerce, telephone or mail order transactions) by matching the one on file with the cardholder’s bank.
• Card Verification Value (CVV2/CVC2). This three-digit code on the back of the credit card provides a real-time check that the customer has a genuine card in hand during a telephone or e-commerce transaction.  Whenever you take a card-not-presentorder, make sure you request this three or four-digit number.
• Verified by Visa*/MasterCard SecureCode. For Internet orders, this payment feature helps to authenticate cardholder identity with the use of a password. Cardholders create a password, which they enter whenever they make a purchase at your website.  This helps ensure the person making the purchase is the actual cardholder.
• Interac® Online. This service allows e-commerce customers to debit their bank account directly for purchases made online. Because the transaction is completed on the merchant’s banking website, there is no card data collected and no risk of  chargebacks.

Using these tools not only protects your business, but also reassures your customers that they can safely place orders with you by phone, mail or online.
 

Member Congratulations

CSMTA  - New Candidate Members
The Canadian Sport Massage Therapist Association, Sask. Chapter would like to welcome Courtney Schell and Casey Galenzoski as level 3 certificate candidates. Both of these therapists will be working towards becoming level 3 certified. This would allow them to apply to work at the Olympic Games and with professional sports teams. Welcome and enjoy the experience.
Al Bodnarchuk RMT, SMTc (Sask. Chapter President)

 

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NEW BABY
Board Member Garret Woynarski and partner Amy Sekulich welcomed their new addition, Carolina Jaymes Ananda Woynarski. 7lbs 11 oz on August 17th. Mom and baby are doing great!

CONGRATULATIONS FROM THE BOARD AND STAFF!
 

Classified Ads - these are all paid advertisements

Barral InstituteVisceral Manipulation: Abdomen 1; Organ Specific Fascial Mobilization (VM1)

Calgary, AB
October 27-30
Click here for details

Toronto, ON
November 3-6
Click here for details

Vancouver, BC
December 1-4
Click here for details

MTAS - 24 primary credits

Visceral Manipulation (VM) assists functional and structural imbalances throughout the body including musculoskeletal, vascular, nervous, urogenital, respiratory, digestive and lymphatic dysfunction. It evaluates and treats the dynamics of motion and suspension in relation to organs, membranes, fascia and ligaments. Strains in the connective tissue of the viscera can result from surgical scars, adhesions, illness, posture or injury. Tension patterns form through the fascial network deep within the body, creating a cascade of effects far from their sources for which the body will have to compensate. This creates fixed, abnormal points of tension that the body must move around, and this chronic irritation gives way to functional and structural problems. VM increases proprioceptive communication within the body, thereby revitalizing a person and relieving symptoms of pain, dysfunction, and poor posture.

www.barralinstitute.com
info@barralinstitute.com
866-522-7725
 

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Stretch-for-Life’s Active Isolated Stretching (AIS), The Mattes Method seminars will teach you how to expertly assist your clients’ active stretching movements.

Aaron Mattes, creator of AIS states that Active Isolated Stretching is the most used stretching technique in the United States by today’s athletes, personal trainers, athletic therapists, massage therapists, and chiropractors. Aaron Mattes has developed this exciting method of stretching over the past 35 years, working with thousands of patients, doctors and health professionals.

Upcoming courses:
Saskatoon:  October 19th & 20th (Wed/Thurs)
Winnipeg:  November 19th & 20th (Sat/Sun) 

Course Fee: $430.00 (includes course manual)
To register and pay visit www.stretch-for-life.com
denise@stretch-for-life.com

*Please note that payment must be received in order to hold your place in the course*
MTAS credits = 16       MTAA credits = 18     MTAM credits = 16    CMTBC = 14 credits     NHPC credits = 10

 

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Breast Massage Post-Grad class
Pam Fichtner will be doing a one-day workshop in which she will review the skills needed to do breast massage for a variety of conditions. She will discuss the basic anatomy and physiology, highlight the indications and work with you to do hands-on techniques for breast health - both maintenance of healthy breasts and post-surgery, such as mastectomy.

If you're interested, please let her know as soon as possible as she would like to schedule a time this fall to do it.
Contact: sephira@sasktel.net

 

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Learn Active Isolated Stretching with Paul John Elliott.

For 9 years, Paul has been empowering therapists and lay-people with the applicable tools of AIS as they pertain to clinical treatments and problems related to physical restrictions.
Stretching Canada’s specializes in teaching AIS seminars nationwide. These 3-day courses will em power you with safe and effective stretching protocols that will compliment your current techniques and strategies.
AIS is an outstanding technique for improving posture, eliminating abnormal curvatures such as scoliosis and kyphosis as well as restoring proper body alignment. AIS plays a crucial role in the treatment of diseases such as MS, Sciatica, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Neck and Back pain as well as Shoulder and Rotator Cuff conditions.

The Mattes Method of Active Isolated Stretching is the only recognized method of AIS globally.

Regina, Sask – 3-day basic AIS. September 16, 17 and 18, 2011.
Location: Holiday Inn Express and Suites Regina, Sk S4S 3R6

Langley, BC – Advanced AIS 3-day. October 21, 22 and 23, 2011.
Location: Langley Sportsplex, 3rd Floor

Edmonton, AB – 3-day basi c AIS. April 27, 28 and 29, 2012
Location - TBA - check
http://stretchingcanada.com/teaching/scheduled-events for updates

Calgary, AB – 3-day basic AIS. May 25, 26 and 27, 2012
Location - TBA - check
http://stretchingcanada.com/teaching/scheduled-events for updates
 

Seminar Price Early-bird special (1 month or more prior to course): $575.
After that date: $600.
Group rates available to groups of 5 or more.

MTAS - 24 Primary Competency Credits 
NHPC – 15 Continue Competency Credits
MTAA – 24 Primary Continuing Education Credits
CATA - 9.0 credits
 

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Two Day Jade Stone Massage Workshop

Regina November 21-22, 2011
Saskatoon November 23-24 2011
14 primary credits

Participants learn over two days all aspects of Jade Stone Massage.
Therapists will be able to confidently incorporate this modality into their practice.

The following areas are covered in detail:
• Tools Required
• Historical use of Jade in Massage
• Attributes of Jade
• Types of stones used and there properties
• Benefits of stone massage
• Alternating temperatures in treatment
• Contraindications and considerations
• Temperature control
• Working with the Stones
• Sterilization, care and storage
• Treatment with clothing on
• Full body Jade massage

You will learn how to incorporate Jade into relaxation and therapeutic massage, working in alternating temperatures, working deep with less effort and more comfort for the client.
The two day workshop is designed that the therapist has a solid knowledge working with a set of only twenty functionally-designed stones in many applications to confidently incorporate their knowledge and skills into a jade treatment.

Facilitator Biographical information:
Shelley (Willis) Killeen is the owner/operator of Southwind Jade and Southwind Retreat & Spa located on Vancouver Island.
Mrs Killeen trains industry professionals in jade stone massage workshops, and distributes jade massage stones.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON COURSE COST OR REGISTRATION INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT SHELLEY:

Tel: 1-877-545-4433 or 250-390-0185
E-mail: southwindretreat@shaw.ca
Website: www.southwindjade.com

 

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Quote for the Day

The measure of success is not whether you have a tough problem to deal with, but whether it's the same problem you had last year.     John Foster Dulles

Just For Students

Students and New Members:

We are looking at hosting a fall information panel to assist you in moving forward in your profession.  MTAS will be hosting a forum with the theme, “Outside of the classroom and into your career.”  A panel discussion with therapists working in a varitey of environments - multi-disciplinary settings, home based businesses and large clinics - will describe the pros and cons of their business models, as well as a legal representative, accountant, and government (GST) panellists.  Stay tuned for the date!

Often in Saskatchewan there are volunteer opportunities for therapists at events throughout the province.  These events are often a great way of introducing yourself to the community and attracting new clients.  We are currently compiling a list of events throughout Saskatchewan that will provide opportunities to MTAS and our members.  We will be collecting names of individuals who are interested in volunteering - please contact Lori or Darcel at execdir.mtas@sasktel.net if you are interested in receiving notices about upcoming events!

 

Smiles

Quiz Answers

1 = d;  2 = d;  3 = a;  4 = a;  5 = a;  6 = c;  7 = d;  8 = b; 
9 = d;  10 = c;  11 = b;  12 = a;  13 = b;  14 = c; 15 = d