The neck is a strong, vulnerable and complex structure. It is the most movable part of the spine, and yet is strong enough to balance and support the head (10-11 pounds), even with chronically poor posture. Skillful deep tissue work in this area is not about brute force; it's about precision and strategy, informed by knowledge of the anatomical structures. It's rare to find massage therapists who really know how to massage the neck in a precise, specific way--especially around the small muscular attachments to the transverse processes--even though this is often where the muscles are most frayed and/or inflamed.
In the morning you will learn specific techniques for releasing the cervical posterior paraspinal muscles (longissimus, semispinalis capitis, multifidus), suboccipital triangle, levator scapula (especially the cervical attachments), facet joints, splenius capitus and cervicis, posterior, middle, and anterior scalenes, sternocleidomastoid, and masseter.
In the afternoon we will focus on deep muscle-specific techniques for the anterior neck. Many people learned in massage school to avoid this area, but it responds safely and well to skilled and precise touch. We will focus on the scalene, suprahyoid, infrahyoid, and longus capitus and colli groups. This is really helpful work for clients who have been in car accidents, have emotional issues with their necks or throats, or use their voices professionally (eg, singers).
These are straightforward, muscle-specific techniques that can be immediately applied in practice. The work is well-suited to either treating cervical injuries or improving your spa massage, and will increase your precision, palpatory sensitivity, and effectiveness. Body mechanics will also be a focus of the class as well as proper use of fingers to save wear and tear on joints.
- To see the class description of the other bundled class, please click on the class title: Assessment and Treatment of the Neck Ligaments (Seattle May 19, 2025)
- If you would like to register for these bundled classes, go to the green box on the right side of the page and click on the white circle next to the class title.
- The price (located above the green box) will change to the bundled price, then click on the green "Add to Cart" button to add both classes to your cart. The details for both classes will be included on your receipt.
- If you would like to register for just this class, bypass the green box and click on the green "Add to Cart" button.
- I honestly learned more in your neck class than any other CE I've taken, and I've been at it almost 13 years. -- Tracey B.
- I love neck work, and this class took things to the next level. -- Heather F.