An introduction to the basic concepts of Kinesiology including: location, palpation and action of the major muscles, bones and joints.

Thorough discussions of muscles, bones and joint structure, along with basic instruction in postural analysis, body mechanics and range of motion studies.

This class information is integrated into the massage technique classes to relate the application of this knowledge directly to massage methods.

Studies in postural analysis begin with an idealized model of human posture. Being able to see and understand what distinguishes healthy, functional posture from dysfunctional posture helps the student to identify patterns in the client contributing to postural dysfunction and pain.

The student will learn the muscular and bony alignment as well as the interaction of the neurological "righting reflexes" which help to keep us upright in space. Massage Therapy requires healthy use of the body for optimum performance and the same holds true for everyone in all of their daily activities.

Healthy use of the body requires an inner sense of ones own body and relationship to the ubiquitous force of gravity. As such the student explores basic concepts in human geometry for application to their own posture and movement and to their future clients.

With this as a basis, students will explore the basic physiology of the joints system, learning the details of the underlying bony mechanics of the human body.

The adage which states “in movement there is life” is true. And more so, in optimum patterns of movement there is ease, which adds years of pleasurable pain-free existence to our lives.

Walking can be seen as the fundamental human movement. Almost every movement which involves the erect human posture involves some aspect of the elements of walking.

MTIC utilizes observation of the gait of students to explore the elements and dynamics of the process of human walking. With these elements as building blocks, students can begin to understand factors involved in biomechanical dysfunctions related to pain.

Students will learn the Joint Range of Motion of the Body and how to assess for normal movement and joint function.

Students will learn how to evaluate posture and will examine each joint of the body for normal ROM. Students will learn how to identify abnormal posture, JROM and gait patterns.

Students will identify major movements of the joints and name the muscle groups responsible for flexion, extension, rotation, circumduction, elevation, depression, pronation, supination, inversion and eversion of the joints and which muscles function as agonists, antagonists, synergists and stabilizers.