Abdominal massage training includes techniques intended to affect the thin layers of muscle in the abdominal walls, the deep layers of muscle that line the foremost part of the spinal column, the smooth muscles that control the process of moving digested food through the body, and the placement and function of the many internal organs located in the abdominal cavity. Oriental forms of abdominal massage often focus on energy points and meridian lines. Due to the delicate nature of many of the internal abdominal structures, massage therapists should practice abdominal massage only if they have received specific training.
Western Style Abdominal Massage
Both Swedish and Esalen style massage offer training in abdominal massage, focusing primarily on increasing circulation to the area and relaxing the various muscles that form the abdominal wall and back of the abdominal cavity. Another focus of Western abdominal massage is the problems posed by adhesions, or scar tissue, that prevent normal organ positioning and function. Students learn special ways to position the patient's body and how to work with the breathing to access areas deep within the abdominal cavity, which requires strong knowledge of anatomy and excellent palpation skills.
Prenatal Abdominal Massage
The American Pregnancy Association in Irving, Texas, encourages anyone seeking prenatal massage to locate a therapist specifically certified in that modality. Due to the heightened sensitivity of the pregnant woman's abdominal area and potential risks to the fetus, it is critical that therapists desiring to do this type of massage work to acquire more training and additional certifications beyond those offered by the standard massage training programs. Several prenatal programs exist, many taught by obstetricians and registered nurses with extensive prenatal experience. Most prenatal massage therapists are trained to confer closely with each patient's obstetrician while providing abdominal massage.
Abdominal Massage for Infants
Infant massage practitioners learn how to perform full-body massage for infants and young children; however, an important portion of their training deals with treating infants that are suffering from the painful condition known as colic. Dr. William Sears, renowned pediatrician, notes that babies with irritable colic syndrome have less colon trouble when massaged frequently. In addition to providing infant abdominal massage, these therapists also learn how to instruct parents to provide abdominal massage for their own children at home.
When the Ancient Becomes New
In these days of enhanced international communications, several ancient styles of massage that were previously practiced in isolated areas are now becoming more widely known. One such style is the Arvigo-style Mayan abdominal massage. Originally taught by Mayan Shaman, Don Elijio Panti, Dr. Rosita Arvigo verifies that it is becoming increasingly popular and training classes are offered in Belize and various U.S. cities. This style of abdominal massage offers elements of both Western and Oriental massage, with a focus on circulation, organ position and the body's energy.
Focus on Energy
Many Oriental philosophies have developed based on the concept that health is controlled by the flow of the body's energetic systems moreso than the physical structures. Students who receive this type of abdominal massage training learn how to recognize a person's energy flow and diagnose disturbances in that force. Students study energy points and meridians, or lines of energy, that flow through the abdominal area. The Tai massage known as Chi Nei Tsang is one form that places particular emphasis on abdominal work.
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