Massage Tutorial: Scalenes (myofascial release, palpation)

My new book is out! It’s called Massage Is Weird: Do you vaguely remember the scalenes from massage school, but don’t quite know how (or why) to work with them? In this video I give you a review of the relevant anatomy, we do some self-palpation, and then there’s a demo with a client. 0:00 Introduction 1:39 Anatomy and palpation review 5:31 Contraindications and cautions 6:13 Client demonstration 12:58 Trigger point demo The demo’s pretty slow, but that’s a great way to work with the scalenes. Remember that this is probably the first time any given client has received direct work on the anterior neck. That means informed consent is important, as is a slow introduction of touch. As you work, be aware of the brachial plexus and subclavian artery exiting near the inferior portion of the scalenes and dipping under the collar bone. Direct, specific pressure on these structures is a contraindication. Try to stay broad and angled when in this area. Got any questions? Hit me up in the comments, and do let me know if there are any topics you’d like to see me cover. Thanks for watching! Support me on Patreon: My Facebook blog: More stuff: