About Hendrickson Method
Hendrickson Method (HM) is an advanced system of massage and manual therapy that effectively and efficiently treats acute and chronic pain. HM synthesizes Wave Mobilization®, a unique method of soft tissue mobilization created by Dr. Tom Hendrickson, with Joint Mobilization and Muscle Energy Technique (MET) to reduce pain, restore function, and promote optimum health.
Wave Mobilization
At the heart of Hendrickson Method is a revolutionary new technique for mobilizing soft tissue modeled on ocean waves called wave mobilization. The strokes are rounded, scooping strokes performed perpendicular to the soft tissue and applied as rhythmic oscillations at a frequency of approximately 60 cycles per minute, which matches the resting heart rate. Performing wave mobilization is akin to a “moving meditation” and leads to an energetic opening for the therapist, as well as for the client. These strokes are extremely relaxing and profoundly healing.
Joint Mobilization
The joints and surrounding soft tissue are typically the primary source of pain in a body. Acute injuries often result in swelling, loss of joint motion, and the inhibition of normal muscle function by neurological reflexes. Chronic joint problems, whether due to degeneration or dysfunction, are almost always the result of misaligned and restricted joints, which prevent normal movement. Hendrickson Method uses specific protocols for treating acute and chronic joint problems that are efficient and effective in reducing pain and restoring normal movement.
Muscle Energy Technique
The third modality of Hendrickson Method is muscle energy technique (MET), which is an extremely effective treatment for dysfunction of the nervous system. Injury and chronic pain in the joints generate neurological reflexes which tighten or weaken specific muscles around that joint. By having clients actively resist gentle, strategic applications of pressure, MET provides neuromuscular rehabilitation of weakened muscles and also helps relax chronically tight muscles, eliminates trigger points, and improves the range of motion of joints.
Therapy for optimum function, rather than just symptomatic relief
A unique aspect of Hendrickson Method is that it provides treatment for the joints and nervous system as well as for the soft tissue. This exceptional system of therapy provides long-term benefits far beyond what is possible with conventional massage because it helps the body achieve optimum function rather than just making symptoms temporarily go away. Precise and extremely effective, Hendrickson Method is suitable therapy for most orthopedic conditions including low back and neck pain, hip degeneration, and rotator cuff injuries.
Rehabilitation and relaxation in tandem
Hendrickson Method combines the rehabilitative benefits of manual therapy with the relaxing effects of massage. Clients receive a gentle session that provides pain-relief and functional rehabilitation. From infants to the elderly, everyone can benefit from Hendrickson Method. This gentle therapy is comfortable to receive and can be done fully clothed and without oil.
Healing touch with natural rhythms
At the heart of Hendrickson Method is a new massage stroke called wave mobilization® which was developed by Dr. Tom Hendrickson during his forty years of clinical practice. Based on the internal energy healing of Tai Chi, these strokes are performed in gentle, rhythmic oscillations that mimic ocean waves and penetrate deep within the body, reducing or eliminating pain, dissolving adhesions, lengthening connective tissue, eliminating trigger points, improving range of motion in the joints, rehabilitating cartilage and discs, and helping to restore normal neurological function.
Healing for both client and therapist
By using the “internal energy” described in Tai Chi, there is a departure from the physical demands of traditional massage and manual therapy techniques. Hendrickson Method therapists learn to stay relaxed and supple, allowing energy to move through them with minimal muscular effort. Wave mobilization is akin to a “moving meditation” and leads to a process of “letting go” for the therapist. This process of letting energy move through you creates an energetic opening and personal transformation. Most students report profound positive changes in their daily lives from learning and practicing Hendrickson Method.