Breast Massage (Theory 5 hrs; Practical 9 hrs) - All levels

Approved for 14 primary CEUs (MTAM)

Statement of overall educational outcome

To be aware of the importance of obtaining specific permission for the application of breast massage. The knowledge of the anatomy of the breast tissue. To be proficient in the application of breast massage.

Prerequisites N/A

Course Goals & Objectives

1. An overview of the design, structure & functions of the tissues of the breast, including its relationship to nearby structures and its circulatory and neural supplies.
2. An understanding of the indications and contraindications for breast massage.
3. An appreciation of the life cycle changes breasts experience and their specific needs in different cycles - including: menstruation, pregnancy, lactation, involution.
4. A basic knowledge of conditions commonly found in breasts.
5. The ability to identify ominous signs
6. Guidelines and techniques for draping breasts and performing breast massage.
7. An appreciation for the self-awareness, sense of boundaries and professionalism required of the massage therapist who provides breast massage.
8. Greater comfort in talking about breast massage with clients and in obtaining clear and thorough consent to treatment.
9. An appreciation of when not to offer breast massage and when to refer to another practitioner.
10. A set of guidelines to support the safety needs of the client and the practitioner.
11. A level of comfort & confidence which makes it possible to offer competent & effective breast treatment when appropriate.

Post workshop requirements (prior to receiving certificate)

The participant needs to show that they have obtained permission for an performed 5 breast massages.

Instructor Bio: Sheila Savary, W.C. (Hon.), RMT

Sheila has been an instructor at WCRMT since 1995. She currently instructs Physiology, Pathology, Neurophysiology, Hydrotherapy and Medical Terminology. Sheila has also been the massage therapist for residents of Middlechurch Home of Winnipeg Inc. (MCH), a personal care home, since 1998.

In 2000, Sheila received an honorarium from WCRMT for her dedication to the students and her work on the pathology program. From 2001-2007, Sheila was a volunteer member of the Palliative Care Team at MCH, and served as the chair in 2005-2007. In 2002, Sheila instructed a workshop on Geriatric Massage care at WCRMT's annual Muscles in Motion conference. She met Jill Rogers from Massage Therapy Canada at this conference, and wrote an article for the magazine the same year. In 2004, Sheila was a guest speaker at the Hospice & Palliative Care Manitoba Annual Care Conference. Since that time, she has facilitated the Friend in Hand course several times, either at MCH or WCRMT. In 2005, Sheila completed the Breast Massage course, as instructed by Debra Curties.

In April 2007, Sheila became a director on the Massage Therapy Association of Manitoba (MTAM) board, and also sits on the continued education commitee. In August 2007, Sheila completed her certificate in Adult and Continuing Education (CACE) with the University of Manitoba.