The Situational Massage online course is based on Western massage theory. Its aim is to help the masseur find different approaches to different problems (e.g., joint problems). For example, if a person has pain in the right knee joint, the online course will give different approaches to relieving the pain. The masseur can then implement this knowledge in practice.
1. Title of the Curriculum
Situation-Based Massage (online course)
2. Curriculum Group
Therapy and rehabilitation
3. Learning Outcomes and Objective
Objective: to provide theoretical knowledge of situation-based massage in the context of various situations.
Learning Outcomes
The successful completer of the online course:
- understands human systems and the effects of massage on them;
- understands the goal-oriented nature of situation-based massage and its difference from general massage;
- knows the impact of occupational specifics on muscles and joints and is able to theoretically address them through situation-based massage;
- knows the movement patterns of sports and their impact on muscles and joints and is able to theoretically address them through situation-based massage;
- is familiar with the most common joint problems and understands how to approach them with situation-based massage;
- is familiar with massage theories and their possible applications.
Methods of Evaluation
The following evaluation methods are used to assess the achievement of the learning outcomes:
- multiple-choice module tests (a total of 6 tests);
- answering short questions (a total of 8 topic blocks);
- final test – 40 questions;
- written assessment: solving situational tasks.
Assessment of learning outcomes takes place at the end of each module. Written assignments receive written feedback within 1–3 business days; only after the independent work has been reviewed and feedback provided can you proceed to the next (sub)module.
4. Conditions for Starting Studies
To participate in the Situation-Based Massage Online Course, a prerequisite has been set: completion of a Classical Massage course or online course is required.
If you plan to participate in the Situation-Based Massage Online Course, please send a copy of your Classical Massage certificate to koolitused@multifarius.ee after registering for the course. If you have completed this course or online course with us, you do not need to send a copy of the certificate.
5. Total Volume and Structure of Study
The volume of the Situation-Based Massage Online Course is 100 academic hours, all of which consist of independent study. One academic hour equals 45 minutes.
The Situational Massage online course includes six basic modules.
Module I: Overview of Human Body Systems and Their Potential to Be Affected through Massage
The first module provides a brief overview of human systems, focusing on the skeletal and muscular systems and the effects of massage on them. It also covers basic human movements, which form the foundation of situational massage. The module offers foundational knowledge for those who have not completed courses in anatomy and physiology or functional anatomy, helping them better understand the principles of situational massage within the context of human systems.
Module II: Principles of Situational Massage
In the second module of the Situational Massage online course, an analysis is conducted on what defines a massage as Situational Massage. The answer is simple: in such a massage, specific goals are followed. This means that the massage is not performed in a general way but with a defined purpose. When a problem occurs in a particular area of the body, the massage is directed to that area, and since it is performed purposefully, the massage becomes situational.
Module III: Profession-Specific Approaches (at least 200 professions)
In the third module, the application possibilities of Situational Massage are analyzed to address the needs of over 200 professions. Since many joint and muscle issues originate from the work environment (such as static postures), it is essential for the massage therapist to adapt techniques according to specific professional requirements. The knowledge gained enables massage therapists to provide a versatile and targeted approach to various problems.
Module IV: Sport-Specific Approaches (at least 200 sports)
In the fourth module, the focus is on adapting situational massage techniques within the context of various sports, analyzing over 200 different sports. Each sport involves unique movement patterns that may lead to certain muscle and joint issues. The module aims to provide massage therapists with the necessary knowledge to offer tailored massage services that meet the specific demands of each sport, helping to prevent injuries, support recovery, and enhance performance.
Module V: Joint-Focused Approaches
The fifth module focuses on joint issues in the context of massage. Massage therapists gain in-depth knowledge of the common causes of joint problems and possible relief methods to apply through massage. The goal of this module is to equip participants with the necessary knowledge to better advise clients and provide optimal assistance through massage.
Module VI: Additional Approaches
In the final module, other approaches that can be applied in the field of massage are also reviewed. This profession includes various theories, some of which are mutually contradictory. To enhance understanding, these theories are also examined so that the massage therapist can gain as much additional information as possible about the advantages and disadvantages of different theories. This enables them to assist clients more professionally with various problems. When one can interpret different theories, a genuine understanding emerges of how the human body functions as a whole and how situational massage can influence different systems within the body.
6. Content of Study and Learning Methods
The e-course includes the following topics:
- understanding of the human body as a whole;
- the meaning and importance of different views and theories;
- common joint problems and their solutions in the context of Situational Massage;
- combining different types of massage;
- etc.
The online course answers the following questions:
- Situational Massage - What is it?
- How to perform a massage for neck problems?
- How to perform a massage for shoulder problems?
- How to perform a massage for elbow problems?
- How to perform a massage for wrist problems?
- How to perform a massage for back problems?
- How to perform a massage for hip problems?
- How to perform a massage for knee problems?
- How to perform a massage for ankle joint problems?
- How to use Situational Massage for other problems?
- etc.
7. Description of the Learning Environment
The online course takes place in a web-based learning environment integrated into the website and is available to participants 24/7. The course is based on a video format, where the content is delivered mainly in audio form: the course instructor explains the topic with a slide presentation or videos in the background, and the instructor’s image is usually not displayed on the screen. To complete the online course, participants must create a user account on the website, have a fast internet connection, and use a device that allows watching video lectures, taking tests, and submitting assignments. A computer is recommended, but the course can also be completed on a smart device (e.g., a smartphone).
8. Conditions for Issuing Graduation Documents
In the Situation-Based Massage Online Course, the achievement of learning outcomes is assessed. If the learning outcomes are achieved, a certificate will be issued. If not all learning outcomes are achieved, a notice will be issued. Issuing the notice requires completing at least 70% of the online course.
A certificate or notice is issued electronically. If you wish to receive a certificate or notice in printed form and sent by post, the fee for printing and delivery within Estonia is €15; delivery abroad is arranged by agreement. The fee for printing and sending a certificate or notice has been set for a simple reason: the cost of special paper, printing, envelope, postage, and the time required for the entire process. We want to keep our main focus on organizing courses rather than spending excessive time on formalities. Issuing a certificate or notice electronically takes about 10 minutes, but on paper it takes several times longer. At the same time, we understand that some learners prefer a certificate or notice in printed form, which is why we provide this option for a reasonable fee.
9. Description of the Course Instructor’s Qualification, Learning or Work Experience Required for Conducting the Course or Studies
The course instructor must have completed extensive studies in massage and successfully passed the professional massage practitioner qualification exam. In addition, the course instructor is required to have at least 5 years of experience in adult education and e-learning instruction.
10. Where can you register for the Situation-Based Massage Online Course? How long is the online course available for completion?
You can register for the Situation-Based Massage Online Course here.
After registration, the Situation-Based Massage Online Course can be completed within one year. The online course can be taken at a convenient time and pace, as it is based on recorded video lectures.