Comprehensive, engaging, and easy to read, this exciting new edition continues to set itself apart as the original and classic introductory massage text. Now in gorgeous full color, filled with hundreds of photos of procedures and techniques Theory and Practice of Therapeutic Massage, Fourth Edition, truly is the book to have. This highly respected, best-seller covers everything from the history of massage to massage modalities to practical information on how to have a successful, fulfilling career in massage. It provides readers with a solid understanding of the body and its functions, including a thorough but uncomplicated chapter on anatomy and physiology. Readers will learn massage techniques and therapeutic skills, including sports massage, prenatal massage, medical massage, hydrotherapy, lymph massage, massage in a spa setting and much more. Thoughtfully revised, this is the foundational book for the study of massage therapy.

Features:

• Provides foundational information on anatomy and physiology, including muscle charts and full color diagrams
• Covers requirements for practicing as a therapeutic massage therapist and comprehensive discussion of professional ethics
• Explains and diagrams massage movements, techniques, and procedures in comprehensible language supported by clear visuals
• Discusses rudimentary techniques as well as specialized areas of massage including sports massage, prenatal massage, lymph massage, neuromuscular therapy, reflexology, hydrotherapy, and more
• Includes important information on business practice invaluable to professional success in therapeutic massage and bodywork.
• Completely redesigned with a full color interior, the addition of numerous full color figures, and updated muscle art
• Stunning new photos depicting the artistry and skill of massage techniques
• Comprehensive new chapter on massage in the spa setting including the history of spa, two massage techniques, and practical career information
• Brand new chapter on Therapeutic Procedures
• Important new chapter on Massage in Medicine
• New appendix on Basic Pharmacology for Massage Therapists