Sensory Approach to Manual Therapy

Send us Fan Mail Pain shouldn’t feel like guesswork. We sat down with therapist, educator, and former pro athlete Julie Pitois to pull back the curtain on a smarter, more human way to solve stubborn pain. Julie co-created the Anatomy Assassin approach, a true‑crime style framework where the “victim” is the loud symptom and the “criminals” are the hidden contributors—movement habits, stress loads, nerve sensitivity, and underperforming tissues—that quietly drive the case. That simple metaphor ...

Send us Fan Mail What happens when the science we rely on and the patients we treat seem to be telling us different things? In this thought-provoking conversation with osteopathic practitioner Sam Jarman, we dive deep into the sometimes confusing relationship between evidence-based medicine and patient-centered care in manual therapy. Sam challenges us to reconsider how we apply evidence in our hands-on practice, noting that "the map is not the territory" – research papers represent averages...

Send us Fan Mail Ever felt underprepared in your professional role and wondered how to bridge that knowledge gap? Join us as esteemed expert Ruth Warner shares her transformative journey from feeling unprepared as a massage therapist in the early 80s to becoming a beacon of knowledge on massage therapy's intersection with pathology. Ruth passionately advocates for therapists to solidify their knowledge base, moving beyond the superficial safety net of doctor's notes. Her insights into the imp...

Send us Fan Mail What happens when a therapist loses their way? Dr. Jesse Reynolds, a respected practitioner in acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine, faced this very dilemma. After adopting the persona of "Dr. Jess" to meet external expectations, he found himself burnt out and questioning his path. Together, we navigate his inspiring journey back to authenticity and how redefining therapeutic presence can prevent the emotional toll of burnout. Our conversation unfolds with a focus on...

Send us Fan Mail Unlock the potential of placebo effects in clinical care with insights from our special guest, Guillaume Leonard, a leading physiotherapist and researcher. This episode promises a deep dive into how integrating placebos, especially within manual therapy and pain management, can enhance treatment outcomes when combined with active components. Guillaume discusses the ethical conundrums and the balancing act of setting realistic expectations without fostering false hopes, all wh...

Send us Fan Mail Unlock the mysterious efficacy of placebos and their role in pain management as we host neuroscience professor and esteemed author Serge Marchand. Together, we unravel the power of patient-practitioner interactions, where empathy and positive reinforcement can significantly alter a patient's pain experience. Listen to how even the most seasoned professionals must navigate the fine line between science and empathy, and how this dance can redefine healing approaches across heal...

Send us Fan Mail Have you ever considered the profound impact that trauma has on the body and the mind, and how manual therapists can provide a beacon of hope for those struggling in its aftermath? We're honored to have Brian Trzaskos join us to shed light on the transformative power of trauma-informed care within manual therapy. Our discussion transcends the traditional view of trauma by focusing on the body’s nervous system and its response to both catastrophic and minor stressors, which ca...

Send us Fan Mail In this podcast we explore Mark and Amanda's origin stories and how they got into massage therapy. Did Mark fall into massage therapy after a drunken dare, was Amanda really convinced into it. Listen to find out. We also explore the evolution of massage therapy and education, public perception and acceptance of massage therapy, the future of massage therapy and what keeps them motivated and inspired! Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this latest podcast with Michael Hamm, from Integrative Bodywork we dive once more into the conversation of 'Defining Massage Therapy'. I always love speaking with Michael. His heart felt communication and genuine love and passion for language make him an amazing guest. His insight into the converging/diverging nature of science was an absolute bullseye in our talk. I hope that podcast blooms like a flower in the back of your heart. Support the show

Send us Fan Mail In this podcast with ABK, we delve into the idea of defining massage therapy and if that is something our industry is struggling with or needs. Ann Blair Kennedy has been a long time member of many influential massage organizations. You may not have known her before this podcast but if you are a massage therapist you have likely been influenced or impact day some of her research in our industry. She is a warm, open hearted human with a thirst for understanding and knowl...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode I speak with Benny Vaughn about what it's like to be in the industry for over 45 years now, how he has dealt with burn-out and what he does to stay motivated! Benny opens up and speaks about some of his past mental health struggles, how he has over come them, and what it's like being an interracially married African American man living in Texas. I am so grateful to Benny for his candour and willingness to share and be vulnerable with me and with us. Su...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode I speak with Dr. Giulia Poerio, an ASMR specialist from the University of Essex. The discussion revolves around the concept of ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response), its triggers, physiological effects, and potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the context of manual therapy and massage. Some Key points discussed include: -Definition and explanation of ASMR, a tingling sensation triggered by certain stimuli like whispering, soft...