Year Two Courses

In year two, our advanced year, students are provided with a theoretical and practical transition from relaxation massage to advanced remedial massage. Students explore in greater detail the physiological effects of their healing touch, the laws and principles related to working with depth and a multitude of techniques geared to the resolution of major soft tissue trauma. Along with in-class work, second year students also see more challenging cases in clinic and through our community outreach placements.

APPLIED KINESIOLOGY (48 hrs)
The ability to identify movement impairment syndromes is crucial when assessing painful dysfunctions. In this course, students analyze the biomechanics of dynamic movement and how, through injury and muscle dysfunction, their movements can become impaired. Drawing from first year anatomy knowledge, this second year course enhances the ability to critically think and effectively identify muscle length/strength imbalances.

SPORTS MASSAGE (54 hrs)
In this course students focus on the philosophy, physiology and practical applications of sports massage techniques. Specialized pre and post- event techniques, as well as injury rehab protocols, are explored in detail. Psychological aspects of working with competitive, elite athletes is discussed as are the principles of sports nutrition, injury prevention and training.

MUSCLE ENERGY TECHNIQUES (MET) (20 hrs)
In the MET segment of the sports massage course, students gain a theoretical and practical understanding of how these techniques can be used in conjunction with a massage therapy treatment plan. Through the application of advanced MET, students learn to effectively stretch, strengthen and mobilize muscle, fascia and other soft tissue structures.

ASSESSMENT / LAB (102 hrs)
The corner stone of second year, this course develops a student’s ability to analyze postural imbalances, movement impairment syndromes and a diversity of common injuries. Through the use of orthopedic assessment protocols, students learn to identify specific tissue and joint pathologies and the root of their causes. To complement this course, students will attend a hands-on practical lab where palpation skills, protocol sequence and case study analysis will be covered for each region of the body.

JOINT MOBILIZATION (50 hrs)
One of many hands-on modules offered in our second year, joint mobilization is the study of joint mechanics and treatment approaches. Pathologies resulting in joint pain and/or stiffness are examined and treated using a variety of positions and mobilization protocols. Treatment plans utilizing traditional massage therapy techniques, used in conjunction with mobilizations, are also explored.

Each semester students recieve support and guidance through our supervised mentorship program. All of our mentors are professional massage therapists who are also graduates with honours from our college.

BUSINESS FUNDAMENTALS (51 hrs)
In a profession such as ours, where therapists can chose from a multitude of career directions, a variety of business skills are mandatory to ensure success. In this course, students learn basic business principles and develop specific skills in areas such as marketing, promotion and small business accounting. Along with business concepts, licensing procedures throughout the country and the benefits of associations are also reviewed. As final course work, students develop a business plan specific to their career goals and aspirations.

ADVANCED TREATMENTS (184 hrs)
The ability to effectively treat complex conditions requires a variety of technique approaches. Musculoskeletal disorders often present a challenging array of signs and symptoms. Interpreting these appropriately, in order to develop effective treatment plans, requires specific assessment and intuitive skills. This course is designed to integrate the skills and knowledge of previous semesters in order to effectively assess and treat these complex cases. At the conclusion of the course, students have gained confidence in their ability to design appropriate treatment plans using critical thinking.

MYOFASCIAL RELEASE (44 hrs)
The theory and practice of Myofascial Release techniques is just one of many hands-on approaches students study at the college. The anatomy of fascia and related structures and how they influence pain syndromes or restrict complete range of motion, are examined throughout this course. Alternative structural assessment protocols and scar tissue techniques are also developed in this practical class.

REMEDIAL EXERCISE / LAB (54 hrs)
Remedial exercise is often an integral component of any complete massage therapy session. Effectively correcting soft tissue and joint imbalances requires a variety of exercise approaches. In this course, students develop their ability to plan and implement remedial exercise programs that complement their massage therapy treatments. Exercise variables and progressions are reviewed in detail as are specific rehab protocols designed to restore or surpass pre-injury strength and flexibility.

COMPREHENSIVE (24 hrs)
This course examines how alterations in healthy movement patterns through repetitive strains or poor posture can lead to injury, pain and dysfunction. Correcting these imbalances, using a comprehensive approach, is the focus of this practical interactive class. Massage modalities developed in previous courses such as joint mobilization and myofascial release are incorporated, as are assessment and advanced soft tissue techniques. This course clarifies the role of all our modalities and complements our advanced treatment course in the final semester.

CLINIC / OUTREACH / CASE STUDY PRACTICUMS (374 hrs)
The opportunity to treat clients in a supervised teaching clinic, enables our students to apply classroom theory in a realistic therapeutic setting. The knowledge gained from working with real pathologies allows our students to feel confident that upon graduation they will be prepared to treat a variety of client conditions. Throughout their clinical practicum, students develop their assessment, treatment and charting skills in an atmosphere of supportive supervision.

Our outreach and case study practicums provide students an opportunity to work with special populations and unique conditions that may not present themselves in clinic. Community outreach provides therapy for those who may not be able to travel to our college while case studies allow students to assess and treat challenging cases over several treatment sessions. Outreach placements in the past have been diverse: The Royal Winnipeg Ballet, The Brodie Medical Centre and The Society for Manitobans with Disabilities. Providing therapy at special events is also a requirement of our outreach practicum. Locations in the past have included The Manitoba Marathon and The Winnipeg Blue Bomber Training Camp.

Year One Courses

THE DIPLOMA PROGRAM
Training at The Massage Therapy College of Manitoba involves over 2200 hours of intensive theory and practical course work. Students are in classes a total of 80 weeks and when taken full time, these weeks consist of 4 equal semesters spanning 20 months

Medical Terminology
Foundations of Massage
Anatomy I/Lab
Physiology
Public Health
Research
Ethics
Tai Chi
Nutrition
Pathology
Sports Injury/Lab
Anatomy II
Associated Therapies
Hyrdrotherapy

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY (27 hrs)
Courses such as anatomy and physiology cannot be fully understood or appreciated without a grounding in medical terminology. This course explores the origins of common medical and anatomical terms which enables students to communicate more professionally. This interactive class reviews all systems of the body and provides students with a solid foundation for other courses.

FOUNDATIONS OF MASSAGE (470 hrs)
In this course, students explore the multidimensional aspects of massage therapy. The power of touch, expressed through hands-on techniques, is developed throughout this full-year course. The study of the scientific principles and artistic applications, refined over centuries, gives students a knowledge base that forms the heart of the MTCM program. Psychological and physiological components of massage are also examined through lecture and hands-on role playing.

ANATOMY I / LAB (120 hrs)
The Anatomy course focuses on the structure of the human musculoskeletal system. Areas of study include the entire body: joints (arthology), bones (osteology), muscles (myology) and the nervous system (neurology). Utilizing video, palpation exercises and body mapping, students explore the complex relationships these areas have to one another. Anatomy I includes a supervised lab, allowing for additional hands-on application of anatomical theory and landmarking.

PHYSIOLOGY (57 hrs)
While anatomy is the study of human structure, physiology is the study of human function. In this course, students are introduced to the body on a cellular level. Tissues, organs and how their systems influence our ability to live and function will be examined under all kinds of conditions. How does my heart keep me alive? How do hormones affect my emotions? These questions and many more will be answered in this first semester course.

PUBLIC HEALTH (30 hrs)
This course introduces students to the concepts of wellness, health promotion, disease prevention and how these concepts relate to massage therapists. Students will gain an understanding of how specific communicable diseases are transferred and how massage therapists can help prevent or even eliminate the spread of certain diseases. Students also learn how massage therapists can work in conjunction with other health care professionals and how to accommodate populations with special needs.

RESEARCH (30 hrs)
In order for us to defend the efficacy of our techniques and protocols, it is imperative that our profession be able to comprehend, decern and produce quality research. The ability to critically analyse articles, case studies and research papers is a necessary skill that will allow us to better educate and communicate with our clients and other health care providers. This course will introduce you to the language of research and develop the skills necessary to conduct valid, defensible case studies.

ETHICS (30 hrs)
The Ethics course introduces students to ethical standards of practice in the field of massage therapy. Students focus on the development of personal awareness, empathy, compassion and interpersonal communication skills. Through lecture, group activities and role playing students explore many issues and situations commonly encountered in our profession. Areas covered are topical in today’s society: professional relationships, codes of conduct, boundaries and abuse issues. Within a supportive environment, this course challenges students to explore their values and belief systems in order to more effectively treat the diversity of today’s clients.

TAI CHI (30 hrs)
The science behind massage therapy and its benefits has become more evident in recent years. While studies continue to prove our efficacy, the artistic side of our profession must never be forgotten. Incorporating the philosophy and movement flow of tai chi and eastern medicine allows our therapists to stay relaxed and centred even after a long day. In this practical course, students explore the foundations of tai chi and eastern medicine and how they can be incorporated into massage therapy sessions.

NUTRITION (30 hrs)
The Nutrition course introduces students to the basic science of healthy and unhealthy eating habits. Students learn the relationship between nutrition and physical activity, disease prevention and optimum health. Students also examine popular diet approaches and why most don’t work. Eating habits of other cultures and how a lack of proper nutrition affects massage treatments and healing are also explored.

PATHOLOGY (57 hrs)
Pathology is the study of disease and how the body responds to it. In this course, students will learn the science of pathology: cell adaptation, stages of inflammation, how the body protects itself through the immune response. Throughout the course, we examine the altered states of health which occur during periods of disease or injury and how massage therapy can be of benefit or in some cases not advised.

SPORTS INJURY / LAB (60 hrs)
Injuries in sport can be debilitating, both physically and emotionally, for elite and casual athletes alike. In this course, students analyze selected sports injuries, mechanisms of injury, preventative and protective guidelines and injury adaptations. Provision of care, in all stages of healing is explored from a massage perspective, as are the treatment approaches of other health care professionals.

ANATOMY II (60 hrs)
The study of anatomy continues in this second semester course, but with a focus on the nervous and circulatory systems. How all the systems of the body relate to each other becomes clearer in this advanced class, as will the ability to influence them. Postural analysis and the continued development of your palpation skills will also be emphasized through individual and group activities.

ASSOCIATED THERAPIES (30 hrs)
Massage therapy is just one of many disciplines utilized in the treatment of musculoskeletal problems. The Associated Therapies course introduces students to alternative treatment approaches which often complement our own. Students are exposed to chiropractic, reflexology and aromatherapy, among others. These half-day information workshops prepare students to make informed decisions when referring clients to other health care professionals and may even lay the foundation for further training in these areas.

HYDROTHERAPY (30 hrs)
The appropriate use of hot and cold therapies can dramatically reduce healing and recovery time. In this course, students study and administer a variety of hydrotherapy applications: body wraps, foot baths, ice packs and thermal variations. Through practical application, students feel the effects of each technique and develop group presentations on their protocol and effectiveness.



	Home Student Resources Why Us Course Description Appyling/Admission Tuition/Financing Clinic and Gift Certificates FAQ Faculty Continuing Education Graduates Contact Mission Statement and Educational Objectives View this PDF for Student Clinic information Now accepting applications for September, 2008. See our Admissions page. Our reputation throughout the country and abroad is one of leadership, diversity and innovation. Year Two Courses In year two, our advanced year, students are provided with a theoretical and practical transition from relaxation massage to advanced remedial massage. Students explore in greater detail the physiological effects of their healing touch, the laws and principles related to working with depth and a multitude of techniques geared to the resolution of major soft tissue trauma. Along with in-class work, second year students also see more challenging cases in clinic and through our community outreach placements. Applied Kinesiology Sports Massage Muscle Energy Techniques Assessment/Lab Joint Mobilization Business Fundamentals Advanced Treatment Myofascial Release Remedial Exercise/Lab Comprehensive Modalities Outreach APPLIED KINESIOLOGY (48 hrs) The ability to identify movement impairment syndromes is crucial when assessing painful dysfunctions. In this course, students analyze the biomechanics of dynamic movement and how, through injury and muscle dysfunction, their movements can become impaired. Drawing from first year anatomy knowledge, this second year course enhances the ability to critically think and effectively identify muscle length/strength imbalances. SPORTS MASSAGE (54 hrs) In this course students focus on the philosophy, physiology and practical applications of sports massage techniques. Specialized pre and post- event techniques, as well as injury rehab protocols, are explored in detail. Psychological aspects of working with competitive, elite athletes is discussed as are the principles of sports nutrition, injury prevention and training. MUSCLE ENERGY TECHNIQUES (MET) (20 hrs) In the MET segment of the sports massage course, students gain a theoretical and practical understanding of how these techniques can be used in conjunction with a massage therapy treatment plan. Through the application of advanced MET, students learn to effectively stretch, strengthen and mobilize muscle, fascia and other soft tissue structures. ASSESSMENT / LAB (102 hrs) The corner stone of second year, this course develops a student’s ability to analyze postural imbalances, movement impairment syndromes and a diversity of common injuries. Through the use of orthopedic assessment protocols, students learn to identify specific tissue and joint pathologies and the root of their causes. To complement this course, students will attend a hands-on practical lab where palpation skills, protocol sequence and case study analysis will be covered for each region of the body. JOINT MOBILIZATION (50 hrs) One of many hands-on modules offered in our second year, joint mobilization is the study of joint mechanics and treatment approaches. Pathologies resulting in joint pain and/or stiffness are examined and treated using a variety of positions and mobilization protocols. Treatment plans utilizing traditional massage therapy techniques, used in conjunction with mobilizations, are also explored. Each semester students recieve support and guidance through our supervised mentorship program. All of our mentors are professional massage therapists who are also graduates with honours from our college. BUSINESS FUNDAMENTALS (51 hrs) In a profession such as ours, where therapists can chose from a multitude of career directions, a variety of business skills are mandatory to ensure success. In this course, students learn basic business principles and develop specific skills in areas such as marketing, promotion and small business accounting. Along with business concepts, licensing procedures throughout the country and the benefits of associations are also reviewed. As final course work, students develop a business plan specific to their career goals and aspirations. ADVANCED TREATMENTS (184 hrs) The ability to effectively treat complex conditions requires a variety of technique approaches. Musculoskeletal disorders often present a challenging array of signs and symptoms. Interpreting these appropriately, in order to develop effective treatment plans, requires specific assessment and intuitive skills. This course is designed to integrate the skills and knowledge of previous semesters in order to effectively assess and treat these complex cases. At the conclusion of the course, students have gained confidence in their ability to design appropriate treatment plans using critical thinking. MYOFASCIAL RELEASE (44 hrs) The theory and practice of Myofascial Release techniques is just one of many hands-on approaches students study at the college. The anatomy of fascia and related structures and how they influence pain syndromes or restrict complete range of motion, are examined throughout this course. Alternative structural assessment protocols and scar tissue techniques are also developed in this practical class. REMEDIAL EXERCISE / LAB (54 hrs) Remedial exercise is often an integral component of any complete massage therapy session. Effectively correcting soft tissue and joint imbalances requires a variety of exercise approaches. In this course, students develop their ability to plan and implement remedial exercise programs that complement their massage therapy treatments. Exercise variables and progressions are reviewed in detail as are specific rehab protocols designed to restore or surpass pre-injury strength and flexibility. COMPREHENSIVE (24 hrs) This course examines how alterations in healthy movement patterns through repetitive strains or poor posture can lead to injury, pain and dysfunction. Correcting these imbalances, using a comprehensive approach, is the focus of this practical interactive class. Massage modalities developed in previous courses such as joint mobilization and myofascial release are incorporated, as are assessment and advanced soft tissue techniques. This course clarifies the role of all our modalities and complements our advanced treatment course in the final semester. CLINIC / OUTREACH / CASE STUDY PRACTICUMS (374 hrs) The opportunity to treat clients in a supervised teaching clinic, enables our students to apply classroom theory in a realistic therapeutic setting. The knowledge gained from working with real pathologies allows our students to feel confident that upon graduation they will be prepared to treat a variety of client conditions. Throughout their clinical practicum, students develop their assessment, treatment and charting skills in an atmosphere of supportive supervision. Our outreach and case study practicums provide students an opportunity to work with special populations and unique conditions that may not present themselves in clinic. Community outreach provides therapy for those who may not be able to travel to our college while case studies allow students to assess and treat challenging cases over several treatment sessions. Outreach placements in the past have been diverse: The Royal Winnipeg Ballet, The Brodie Medical Centre and The Society for Manitobans with Disabilities. Providing therapy at special events is also a requirement of our outreach practicum. Locations in the past have included The Manitoba Marathon and The Winnipeg Blue Bomber Training Camp. Year One Courses THE DIPLOMA PROGRAM Training at The Massage Therapy College of Manitoba involves over 2200 hours of intensive theory and practical course work. Students are in classes a total of 80 weeks and when taken full time, these weeks consist of 4 equal semesters spanning 20 months Medical Terminology Foundations of Massage Anatomy I/Lab Physiology Public Health Research Ethics Tai Chi Nutrition Pathology Sports Injury/Lab Anatomy II Associated Therapies Hyrdrotherapy MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY (27 hrs) Courses such as anatomy and physiology cannot be fully understood or appreciated without a grounding in medical terminology. This course explores the origins of common medical and anatomical terms which enables students to communicate more professionally. This interactive class reviews all systems of the body and provides students with a solid foundation for other courses. FOUNDATIONS OF MASSAGE (470 hrs) In this course, students explore the multidimensional aspects of massage therapy. The power of touch, expressed through hands-on techniques, is developed throughout this full-year course. The study of the scientific principles and artistic applications, refined over centuries, gives students a knowledge base that forms the heart of the MTCM program. Psychological and physiological components of massage are also examined through lecture and hands-on role playing. ANATOMY I / LAB (120 hrs) The Anatomy course focuses on the structure of the human musculoskeletal system. Areas of study include the entire body: joints (arthology), bones (osteology), muscles (myology) and the nervous system (neurology). Utilizing video, palpation exercises and body mapping, students explore the complex relationships these areas have to one another. Anatomy I includes a supervised lab, allowing for additional hands-on application of anatomical theory and landmarking. PHYSIOLOGY (57 hrs) While anatomy is the study of human structure, physiology is the study of human function. In this course, students are introduced to the body on a cellular level. Tissues, organs and how their systems influence our ability to live and function will be examined under all kinds of conditions. How does my heart keep me alive? How do hormones affect my emotions? These questions and many more will be answered in this first semester course. PUBLIC HEALTH (30 hrs) This course introduces students to the concepts of wellness, health promotion, disease prevention and how these concepts relate to massage therapists. Students will gain an understanding of how specific communicable diseases are transferred and how massage therapists can help prevent or even eliminate the spread of certain diseases. Students also learn how massage therapists can work in conjunction with other health care professionals and how to accommodate populations with special needs. RESEARCH (30 hrs) In order for us to defend the efficacy of our techniques and protocols, it is imperative that our profession be able to comprehend, decern and produce quality research. The ability to critically analyse articles, case studies and research papers is a necessary skill that will allow us to better educate and communicate with our clients and other health care providers. This course will introduce you to the language of research and develop the skills necessary to conduct valid, defensible case studies. ETHICS (30 hrs) The Ethics course introduces students to ethical standards of practice in the field of massage therapy. Students focus on the development of personal awareness, empathy, compassion and interpersonal communication skills. Through lecture, group activities and role playing students explore many issues and situations commonly encountered in our profession. Areas covered are topical in today’s society: professional relationships, codes of conduct, boundaries and abuse issues. Within a supportive environment, this course challenges students to explore their values and belief systems in order to more effectively treat the diversity of today’s clients. TAI CHI (30 hrs) The science behind massage therapy and its benefits has become more evident in recent years. While studies continue to prove our efficacy, the artistic side of our profession must never be forgotten. Incorporating the philosophy and movement flow of tai chi and eastern medicine allows our therapists to stay relaxed and centred even after a long day. In this practical course, students explore the foundations of tai chi and eastern medicine and how they can be incorporated into massage therapy sessions. NUTRITION (30 hrs) The Nutrition course introduces students to the basic science of healthy and unhealthy eating habits. Students learn the relationship between nutrition and physical activity, disease prevention and optimum health. Students also examine popular diet approaches and why most don’t work. Eating habits of other cultures and how a lack of proper nutrition affects massage treatments and healing are also explored. PATHOLOGY (57 hrs) Pathology is the study of disease and how the body responds to it. In this course, students will learn the science of pathology: cell adaptation, stages of inflammation, how the body protects itself through the immune response. Throughout the course, we examine the altered states of health which occur during periods of disease or injury and how massage therapy can be of benefit or in some cases not advised. SPORTS INJURY / LAB (60 hrs) Injuries in sport can be debilitating, both physically and emotionally, for elite and casual athletes alike. In this course, students analyze selected sports injuries, mechanisms of injury, preventative and protective guidelines and injury adaptations. Provision of care, in all stages of healing is explored from a massage perspective, as are the treatment approaches of other health care professionals. ANATOMY II (60 hrs) The study of anatomy continues in this second semester course, but with a focus on the nervous and circulatory systems. How all the systems of the body relate to each other becomes clearer in this advanced class, as will the ability to influence them. Postural analysis and the continued development of your palpation skills will also be emphasized through individual and group activities. ASSOCIATED THERAPIES (30 hrs) Massage therapy is just one of many disciplines utilized in the treatment of musculoskeletal problems. The Associated Therapies course introduces students to alternative treatment approaches which often complement our own. Students are exposed to chiropractic, reflexology and aromatherapy, among others. These half-day information workshops prepare students to make informed decisions when referring clients to other health care professionals and may even lay the foundation for further training in these areas. HYDROTHERAPY (30 hrs) The appropriate use of hot and cold therapies can dramatically reduce healing and recovery time. In this course, students study and administer a variety of hydrotherapy applications: body wraps, foot baths, ice packs and thermal variations. Through practical application, students feel the effects of each technique and develop group presentations on their protocol and effectiveness.
Copyright © 2008 Massage Therapy College of Manitoba \| Phone: 772.8999 \| Fax: 772.5090 \| Email: mcollege@mts.net