Science and Muscle Courses

Science is the foundation of your art. The development of your palpation skills and the technique utilized is based on the structure. Pehr Hendrik Ling (1776-1839), the founder of the Swedish system of medical gymnastics, believed that a thorough knowledge of the human body and nature's laws was a minimum for an intelligent understanding of physical education. Ling studied Anatomy and Physiology at the University of Lund and developed a practice from a scientific position that attempted to explain the cause-and-effect relationships of the healing process. His school was soon attended by allopaths of the era, curious about his success and his techniques. Pathology and Kinesiology were also taught in Ling's curriculum. The courses described here have been designed specifically for giving the DSM student knowledge in the sciences of the human body. The curriculum allows the student to build on that information by reinforcing structure and function in the technique classes.

 

 

Science and Muscle Courses

*Anatomy and Physiology Curricula Objective
To teach a comprehensive understanding of the structure and function of the human body, using experiential and traditional teaching methods.

Anatomy (57 Hours)
This course will present an introductory overview of the human body with an emphasis on the skeletal and muscular systems. All the major systems of the body will be described from a gross anatomy and a tissue level perspective. This course will include a lab component for experiential movement to bring anatomy “alive.” At the completion of this course, students will be able to visually identify, manually locate, and label the major components of each system. A 75% minimum grade average is required to pass Anatomy.

Physiology (57 Hours)
This course will present an overview of physiological processes in the human body. Special emphasis will be on the interrelationships between the musculoskeletal, nervous, and circulatory systems. Students will gain a basic understanding of the function of the human body pertinent to a massage therapy practice. A 75% grade average is needed to pass Physiology.

*Pathology Curriculum Objective
To teach basic concepts of disease and its relationship to Massage Therapy.

Pathology (40 Hours)
Pathology is the study of disease. In this course the student will gain a basic understanding of the concepts of disease, inflammatory response, client assessment, therapeutic evaluation, and when to refer. Special emphasis will be on the integumentary, musculoskeletal, nervous, and circulatory systems. Students will be able to recognize and locate reference material on the pathological processes most likely encountered in a massage therapy practice. A basic introduction to HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis C, and other diseases involving public health will include definitions, precautions, contraindications, and disease awareness. A 75% grade average is needed to pass Pathology.

*Kinesiology and Maniken® Muscles Curricula Objectives
To facilitate learning the origins, insertions, and actions of muscles and lay a foundation for advanced technique.

Kinesiology (45 Hours)
Approximately 100 muscles are taught by lecture, slides, and supervised practice to encourage the student to know where the muscles attach and their actions. Introduction to advanced techniques of Dimensional Massage enables the student to palpate muscles and their attachments, giving a kinesthetic approach to gaining the information. Dimensional Massage incorporates and complements understanding the structure to develop treatment goals with the Swedish techniques taught in the Massage Course. A 75% grade average is required to pass Kinesiology.

Maniken® Muscles (12 Hours lab)
Developed by Jon Zahourek Systems, Maniken class gives the student the opportunity to build muscles of the extremities using clay on a maniken model. This provides the student with a three dimensional, kinesthetic learning process for understanding muscles. Besides giving a review of the skeletal structure, Maniken Muscles helps the student to perceive the relationship of one muscle to another in terms of depth, superficiality, and attachments. No one needs artistic talent, as this course is based on participation and completion of task. This is a Pass/Fail class.

*Nutrition Curriculum Objective
To teach an introduction to basic nutritional concepts.

Nutrition (6 Hours)
Students will grasp basic nutritional concepts to better understand the philosophy of holistic health and its relationship to Massage Therapy. Although there is a lot of basic information to get through, time is allowed for special interests and questions. What you eat (or don’t eat) and how it affects your health is discussed. A 75% course average is required to pass Nutrition.

 

Massage and Related Courses

Although DSM has a strong foundation in the sciences, the program goes well beyond science and teaches the student a wide variety of practical experiences. Massage courses begin with a comprehensive presentation of Swedish theory and technique. Integration with other courses during the program enables the student to give a massage treatment designed for the individual, based on the structure, medical history, postural assessment, and problem at hand. Self-care classes teach the student lessons in stretching, boundaries, communication skills, and self-awareness for physical and emotional needs during school and in practice. Hydrotherapy provides specific applications to the body to add comfort, relaxation, and preparation for massage. Video Mechanics classes support the school's position on proper body mechanics to avoid injuries before and after graduation. Deep tissue and static & motion analysis advance the student to a greater understanding of technique and structure. Geriatric Massage, Pregnancy Massage, and Children's Clinic show how massage is valuable to specific populations. Reflexology adds to the student's knowledge base to give special emphasis to hands and feet. The clinic ties everything up in a tidy bundle, providing extremely valuable learning experience working on members of the general public who have a variety of conditions, illnesses, and discomforts. DSM students soothe and relax the community. No wonder so many people sign up for clinic participation!

 

 

 

Massage and Related Courses

*Swedish Massage Curriculum Objectives
To nurture confidence and personal growth, inspiring more understanding and compassion in the individual. To teach a significant understanding of the value of touch and the psychological implications that accompany all massage work. To impart a holistic understanding of the benefits, effects, and limitations of massage therapy to appropriately refer clients to other health professionals when necessary. To teach a working competence in the practical use of Swedish Massage. To teach proper movement skills for each individual to prevent work-related injuries. To teach a significant introduction to pregnancy massage and to present an opportunity for students to massage children.

Swedish Massage (171 Hours)
This is the foundation of techniques taught at DSM. Holistically presented in theory and technique, Swedish is interwoven with other representations of manipulative, soft tissue therapies for the purpose of individualizing treatments. Students will become competent in techniques and learn theory, contraindications, therapeutic benefits, effects, and history of Swedish Massage in relationship to manipulative therapies. Advanced techniques are practiced and supported by Kinesiology. Special classes on headaches and blindfold massage are a part of the massage course curriculum. Video mechanics classes are a support arm of all table technique classes. Students are videotaped so they can actually see themselves practice massage. DSM invites pregnant women to participate in the biannual Pregnancy Massage Clinic. Students learn contraindications and physical support mechanisms by lecture and technique, as well as by demonstration and practice, before the Pregnancy Massage Clinic. The clinic gives the student the opportunity to practice, under supervision, with women in various stages of pregnancy. In another supervised setting, students have the opportunity to practice massage techniques on children at the annual community-supported Children's Massage Clinic. Students learn just how much children love massage! Out-of-class work includes log hours, a massage project, case studies, homework, and four treatments from professional, working therapists. Students must have a 75% grade average to pass Swedish Massage and complete all course requirements.

*Centering Curriculum Objectives
To introduce students to the Body/Mind perspective and its relationship
to massage therapy. To teach and practice centering techniques that can
be easily applied and integrated into the students personal and
professional lives.

Centering Techniques for Body/Mind (6 Hours)
This course offers students a practical philosophy and set of techniques which
help to bring the body/mind into balance, thus promoting physical and emotional healing, relaxation, and well-being. Students will learn concepts and techniques that can be easily applied and integrated into their personal and professional lives. Content includes a variety of breathing and centering techniques, basic movement techniques, mindfulness, biofeedback, self-hypnosis, visualization and imagery, and Concept of 100 Percent Responsibility. Attendance and participation make this course Pass/Fail.

*Introduction to Self-Care and Professional Development Course
Objective
To explore the emotional and physical challenges and responsibilities encountered while learning to become a professional massage therapist.

Introduction to Self-Care and Professional Development (15 Hours)
Facilitated small-group discussions explore such topics as boundaries, injury prevention, sexuality, burnout, dual relationships, money, transference, countertransference, supervision, and communication. The experiences of participants and working professionals are used to gain insights into the complexity of client/therapist relationships. As a formal commitment to good physical health, the student is required to perform and log appropriate forms of exercise during the school year. Attendance, participation, and a paper written and presented are all necessary for completion. This is a Pass/Fail course.

Clinic (57 Hours)
Valuable in-class hours offer the student the opportunity to work with the public in a supervised setting. Each year DSM advertises to the community that student massage is available for a reasonable charge, and the response has made the clinic a success. Clinic supervisors work directly with the students, helping with technique, checking medical histories and SOAP notes, developing treatment goals, and monitoring student body mechanics. Clinic participants give feedback to students through evaluation forms. Participation and attendance make this course Pass/Fail.

*Deep Tissue Therapy and Static & Motion Analysis Curricula
Objective
To teach effective deep tissue techniques and postural assessment to enhance therapeutic practice.

Deep Tissue Therapy (28 Hours)
This course includes an introduction to rehabilitative techniques used to treat chronic pain produced by Myofascial Pain Syndrome (MPS) and muscular dysfunction from injury. The foundation of this class is the research of Ida Rolf, Dr. Janet Travell, Thomas Myers, and Paul St. John, and the effective techniques they developed. Subsequent work done by other practitioners in the field of therapeutic bodywork is incorporated. The techniques used for Deep Tissue Therapy include energy work, exercises in tissue-listening, myofascial release, a variety of energizing movement techniques for personal centering, and client reeducation. Participation and attendance make Deep Tissue Therapy Pass/Fail.

Static & Motion Analysis (12 Hours)
This course will present a basic overview of the techniques and clinical reasoning behind the assessment of static and motion analysis. Students will learn how to use visual cues in assessing clients’ postural holding patterns. Students will participate in gait analysis, and differentiate holding patterns through active and passive range of motion testing. This is a practical participation class that links Swedish, Kinesiology, and Deep Tissue courses. It is Pass/Fail.

*Reflexology Curriculum Objective
To teach a significant introduction to Reflexology.

Reflexology (6 Hours)
Students will be able to incorporate Reflexology into a massage treatment. Specific techniques, zone areas, and sequence are taught in order to understand reflexology methods, history, and philosophy. Reflexology is Pass/Fail.

*Hydrotherapy Curriculum Objective
To teach a significant introduction to Hydrotherapy.

Hydrotherapy (12 Hours)
Hydrotherapy is the use of water in solid, liquid, or gaseous form. Students experience and learn functional applications of sauna, spa, steam, ice, paraffin, and hydrocollator as used in massage therapy. It includes principles of hydrotherapy and contraindications, as well as salt glows, fomentations, and cold packs. Hydrotherapy is a Pass/Fail course.

*The Lymph Zone Curriculum Objective
To introduce students to the modality of Lymphatic Drainage

The Lymph Zone (6 Hours)
The lymphatic system is beautifully complex, yet fluid with a rhythm all its own. Students will enhance their knowledge of lymphatic anatomy and physiology through lecture and hands-on experience. Discussion of edema and lymphedema will also be included. Each student will have the opportunity to feel the lymphatic rhythm and learn self-lymphatic drainage. Attendance and participation make this class Pass/Fail.

*Geriatric Massage Curriculum Objective
To give the student the opportunity to massage members of the elder population.

Geriatric Massage (6 Hours)
DSM is fortunate to have a relationship with a local nursing home with an elder population that literally lines up for student massage! Students learn basic information, contraindications, and techniques to work with the elderly. Three hours are lecture and three hours include practical work in a clinic setting. Attendance and participation make Geriatric Massage Pass/Fail.

*Introduction to Shiatsu Curriculum Objective
To teach an introduction to Shiatsu.

Introduction to Shiatsu (6 Hours)
For philosophy and diversity, this mandatory course gives the student an introduction to an Eastern bodywork. Students will be introduced to the basic premise of Oriental medicine, the 5 principles of Shiatsu, meridian lines, Yin/Yang Theory, Chi or Ki, the hara, and tsubos. Attendance and participation make this course Pass/Fail.

 
Concentration Choices

To complement the core curriculum, DSM gives the student the opportunity to choose a direction. Concentration 1 is Sports Massage, Concentration 2 is Shiatsu, and Concentration 3 is the Energy Quest including Polarity, Quantum Touch and CranioSacral Therapy. The choice of Sports Massage, Shiatsu, or the Energy Quest is like frosting on a cake. Although it is possible to take everything in all three concentrations all at once, it is generally considered not advisable. Graduates may return at a later date to take other program choices separately.
 

Concentration Choices

Concentration 1: Sports Massage

*Sports Massage Curriculum Objective
To teach a working competence in event sports massage and an introduction to the assessment and treatment of chronic injuries/ conditions using sports massage techniques.

Sports Massage (48 Hours)
The objective of Concentration 1 is to introduce the student to basic information and techniques in many related areas which are included in the successful practice of Sports Massage. The first two weekends includes pre- and post-event massage, joint mobilization, thermal problems, proprioceptor neuromuscular facilitation, cryotherapy, and other techniques with supervised practical time. Upon completion of the two weekends of classroom instruction plus 12 hours of event time, the student will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the background and principles of event sports massage. The student will be able to display a high degree of familiarity and competency with the techniques of event sports massage. Students are expected to attend planned events as part of the course. It is suggested that students bring shorts, bathing suits, or warm-up clothes for this course. The third weekend will introduce students to specific skills used when assessing chronic injuries/conditions common to active people. A 75% grade average is required to pass Sports Massage.

Concentration 2: Shiatsu

*Shiatsu Curriculum Objective
To teach a working competence in Shiatsu.

Shiatsu (150 Hours)
Concentration 2 is divided into two levels. The first class is preceded by 6 hours of Introduction to Shiatsu for all students. Shiatsu is the ancient Oriental technique meaning “finger pressure.” Oriental philosophy teaches experience with energy in a totally different format. Level I presents an introduction to the concepts and experience of Shiatsu and lays the foundation for the rest of the course. Students learn about the 14 meridians, Ki (the body’s vital energy source), and the Tsubos (pressure points) that are pressed to stimulate Ki and generate healing. Level II provides advanced Oriental techniques with emphasis on practical skills and Chinese medicine, for the purpose of developing the students’ abilities to demonstrate competence giving a shiatsu treatment. Students will explore the Element Theory and diagnostic knowledge. Out-of-class case studies, practical clinic experience, and regular homework will help develop student competency. Shiatsu treatments are effective for many symptoms, from physical pain to emotional stress and fatigue. Shiatsu enhances vitality. Students will need a mat, as shiatsu treatments are traditionally practiced on the floor. A 75% grade average is required to pass Shiatsu.

Concentration 3: Energy Quest

*Energy Quest Curriculum Objectives
To teach introductions to the modalities of Polarity, Quantum Touch, andCranioSacral Therapy.

Quantum Touch (6 Hours)
Quantum Touch (QT) is a hands-on healing modality that is based on the flow of universal life force energy. It is simple to learn, and the effects of the work are profound. Completely non-invasive in nature, QT helps the body by accelerating its healing response, balancing energy, and relieving pain. In this 6-hour introduction to QT, students will learn its basic principles, philosophy, and history. Upon completion of the study, students will be able to employ body awareness meditations, breathing techniques, and hand positions to assist healing in themselves or others in a wide variety of situations. Students will learn that teaching QT to clients can empower them to take an active part in their journey toward optimum wellness. Attendance and participation make this a Pass/Fail course.

CranioSacral Therapy (6 Hours)
This 6-hour course will introduce the healing modality of CranioSacral Therapy through lecture and hands-on experience. In the early 1900s, the CranioSacral system was discovered by William G. Sutherland, DO, who believed that there was movement in the cranial bones. Conventional anatomical knowledge and teaching believed that cranial bones were movable only in young infants, and that these bones were solidly fused in adulthood. In the early 1970s, the College of Osteopathic Medicine at Michigan State University began a series of studies to prove or disprove cranial bone movement. The MSU team proved and measured the frequency and amplitude of cranial bone movement in adult living primates. Dr. John Upledger, a member of the MSU cranial team, has since been developing techniques for evaluation and treating the dural membranes. CranioSacral Therapy is a very gentle hands-on technique to detect and correct imbalances or restrictions in the CranioSacral system, thereby encouraging one's own natural healing to be augmented. Attendance and participation make this a Pass/Fail course.

Polarity (14 Hours)
Polarity Therapy is a holistic, energy-based healing form which encompasses elements of India's ancient Ayurvedic Sciences and the lifelong work of Randolph Stone, D.O., D.C., N.D. The five element frequencies of Ether, Air, Fire, Water and Earth will be explored through meditation and hands-on techniques. Students will learn several methods of palpation, a working knowledge of the Chakra system, and begin to understand their personal body type in accordance with the principles of polarity therapy. Dynamic Polarity exercises and Yogic breathing will help students experience clarity and grounding. Upon course completion, students will be able to apply principles of Polarity Therapy to themselves, give a Polarity treatment, or integrate the techniques into a Swedish Massage session. Attendance and participation make this course Pass/Fail.

 
Career Development

Ethics and business courses prepare students to maintain high standards and achieve success. DSM has a variety of courses to stimulate the business side of the career field. The reality is that after the student has combined art with science, he/she has to figure out how to market, promote, and run a business. The courses in career development are designed to walk the student through this process.

 

Career Development

*Career Development Curricula Objective
To introduce information on business skills necessary to be either successfully self-employed or to work with another health professional or health facility.

Business Design (14 Hours)
This course will present basic business management skills including marketing, bookkeeping, insurance billing, and creative ideas for a successful massage practice. Students will learn about target markets and how to advertise and design a basic office layout. A 75% grade average is required to pass Business Design.

Business Panel and Integrating Business (3 Hours)
The business panel is composed of visiting massage therapists and guest speakers who represent their experiences to the students. A moderator keeps the discussion rolling and prepares a set of possible questions and scenarios for the group to discuss. This class gives the student the opportunity to listen to and question experienced massage therapists who have different target markets and a variety of practices in the field of massage therapy and bodywork. Discussion will include information on how massage therapy can be integrated with other health care modalities. Attendance and participation make this class Pass/Fail.

The Art of Public Presentations (3 Hours)
This class centers on how to present information on massage therapy to a group. Students will receive a variety of marketing presentation outlines to help promote their massage therapy practices. All participants will be guided through a seated massage exchange. Public speaking and techniques utilized to help dispel the fear of presenting to a group will be explored. Attendance and participation make this class Pass/Fail.

*Ethics Curriculum Objective
To instill ethics as an integrated philosophy with massage therapy to properly prepare the individual for the professional aspects of the career.

Ethics (6 Hours)
“Ethics is the process by which we sort out what best creates inner and outer harmony in our lives.” Kylea Taylor, The Ethics of Caring. Classes include lecture on the philosophy and science of ethics and its relationship to massage therapy, clients, and other health professionals. Group participation includes solving ethical dilemmas and presenting “answers” to the entire class for further discussion. Students will be able to define ethics and will explore a variety of codes of ethics from the field of Massage Therapy. Attendance and participation make Ethics Pass/Fail.

 
Miscellaneous Courses

Rounding out the curriculum are courses that enhance all the programs. Introduction (6 hours) is mandatory for all students. Orientation is an important time to introduce the program to students and discuss the curriculum, schedules, and policies of the school. Books are distributed, and it is a time to get to know your new classmates, as well as teachers and administration. The program reflects the growing interest in holistic health, as evidenced by inclusion of coursework in homeopathy and the emotional and physical components of chronic pain and trauma.
 

Miscellaneous Courses

Chronic Pain (3 Hours)
Lecture teaches a basic understanding of the definition of chronic pain and how to support clients who deal with it daily. Chronic pain is the category where we as massage therapists are the most successful, but have the most failure. Understanding chronic pain will be a life-long goal in your practice. Attendance and participation are required for a Pass/Fail grade.

Introduction to Homeopathy (3 Hours)
This introductory class will review the principles, philosophy, and application of homeopathy. Case examples will be given, which will clarify the relationship of homeopathy to massage therapy. Attendance and participation are required for a Pass/Fail.

*Introduction to the Impact of Trauma Curriculum Objective
To introduce and create sensitivity around issues of trauma and sexual abuse as they impact the body and massage work.

Introduction to the Impact of Trauma (6 Hours)
This basic introductory class will present a discussion of the many different kinds of trauma and its impact on the body and mind. Some exercises for attending to clients during emotional release and flashbacks will be included. Students will be able to evaluate situations for referral, recognize tools they have for trauma survivors, and identify areas of further education to strengthen skill and confidence levels. Attendance and participation make this class Pass/Fail.

 

 

 
 

Continuing Education and Electives

DSM offers electives and continuing education in order to present a holistic approach to learning. Any of the three programs can be taken as an elective or for continuing education and are individually priced according to length, design, and purpose. Shiatsu may be taken in its entirety or in two sections.
Special guest workshops, certification programs, and other continuing education options are also open to graduates and professional massage therapists. Invitations and notices are mailed three to four times a year; anyone can call the school to be placed on the continuing education or newsletter (In Touch) mailing list. Guest speakers from all over the world have presented on a wide variety of subjects at DSM. Curriculum, special electives, continuing education, programs, and dates are subject to change. In the event that school is closed due to inclement weather conditions, students and continuing education participants will be informed. DSM is approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) as a continuing education provider.

*Reflexology Curriculum Objectives
To train the student to give a competent Reflexology treatment of the feet, hands, and ears.

Reflexology Certification (50 Hours)
Upon completion of this course the student will receive a certificate documenting 300 hours of Reflexology instruction and practice. Coupled with the DSM curriculum, the Reflexology program will exceed and fulfill standards as set by a national Reflexology commission. Of the 300 hours, 170 are met by the DSM curriculum for massage therapy. These hours include Reflexology, Anatomy, Physiology, Postural Assessment, Pathology, Ethics, and related subjects in the core curriculum. Additional hours represent more instruction on the history, theory and practice of Reflexology of the feet, hands, and ears, clinical practice, one-on-one practice with the instructor and independent practice with documentation. A 75% grade average is required to pass this Reflexology Certification.