The Doreeno Method

Thumb-Free Deep Tissue: Massage Therapist Injury Prevention

Learn more about Thumb-Free Deep Tissue. The image shows a hand in the "thumbs up!" motion. A "no" symbol, the red circle with a line through it, is over the thumb itself. The background is a beautiful lake in Maine.
Learn more about Thumb-Free Deep Tissue. The image shows a hand in the "thumbs up!" motion. A "no" symbol, the red circle with a line through it, is over the thumb itself. The background is a beautiful lake in Maine.

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Massage Therapist injury prevention isn’t just about what to avoid. This intermediate course will give therapists the tools they need to provide deep tissue massage without relying solely on our thumbs.

Massage therapists spend their careers caring for others, but self-care is just as essential for them as it is for their clients. Just like the oxygen mask rule on an airplane—taking care of yourself first ensures you can continue helping others. Prioritizing injury prevention, proper body mechanics, and self-care routines helps therapists avoid burnout, extend their careers, and provide better treatments. Investing in your own well-being means you can show up fully for your clients, delivering high-quality bodywork without pain or strain.

Delivering deep tissue massage doesn’t have to hurt—your clients or you! This NCBTMB Certified 8 CE hour course teaches massage therapists how to provide effective, therapeutic deep tissue bodywork without pain. Learn thumb-free techniques, injury prevention, body mechanics, and ergonomics to protect your hands while delivering firm pressure.

In this massage therapist injury prevention course you will learn:

  • Why the anatomy of our hands and arms helps clients but may hurt us.
  • Simple, easy to follow principles for preventing injury, including body mechanics and ergonomics.
  • How to provide “Thumb-Free” Deep Tissue techniques for the neck, back, arms, hands, legs, and feet.
  • Self-Care

Massage Therapist Testimonials for Thumb-Free Deep Tissue

Super fun, educational, and friendly instructor. Gave lots of info but not overwhelming, made sure each student had support and understood what we were doing. I feel I very much benefited from this course today! -G.P.

This course allowed me to reestablish mindfulness in the application of massage strokes for more efficient and effective movement. -L.L.

Wonderful teaching style – simplified difficult concepts and was thorough with explanations and did a LOT of showing! Great attitude and patience. Very educational and necessary course! TY! – E.L.