Science-Based Medical and Sports Massage Is Not Rocket Science

From the Author

I am planning to return to teaching and would like to share what you can expect—my views on continuing education and massage education in general. This way, if you decide to attend my classes, you will be better prepared to understand my approach and adapt to my methods.

This writing reflects my strong belief in what it truly takes to become a science-based medical and sports massage practitioner. There are many perspectives and educational approaches aimed at helping practitioners develop higher-level skills and achieve sustainable results within a short course of treatments.

Those who follow my writings know that I do not believe in memorizing thousands of pages of anatomy and physiology books, to become a great practitioner. We must avoid scientific demagoguery and the pretense of being academicians. I don’t believe in theoretical guessing—I believe in understanding and applying what works.

1. We must deeply understand the physiological effects of massage. https://www.medicalmassage-edu.com/articles/physiological-effect-of-massage-on-the-human-body.htm
2. Researchers have developed around 60 step-by-step medical and sports massage protocols. Through rigorous investigation, scientists identified the most effective technical combinations to eliminate pain and dysfunction and to promote rehabilitation.

In practice, we continue to refine and personalize our methods within these scientifically established frameworks to accelerate healing.

I must emphasize an important point: today, many claim to teach or have “developed” medical and sports massage. It’s crucial to understand the history of this field.

https://www.medicalmassage-edu.com/what-is-medical-massage/

Following sentences from my article:

“Beyond Technique: Safety, Specialization, and the Future of Medical Massage.”

Reality Check:

“Medical schools as well as massage schools prepare students for clinical practice, generally focusing on a solid foundation. Students then choose their specializations—MDs select different residency programs. In contrast, massage therapy graduates do not require residencies; they simply pursue relevant continuing education programs to prepare for their desired careers.”

To become a skilled hands-on practitioner, one must not simply memorize but understand the essence of the abnormalities being addressed—and, of course, learn and remember the step-by-step hands-on applications.

It is impossible to learn medical and sports massage in the “Instagram style,” where you watch a few seconds and think you know it. True understanding often requires rereading relevant material and learning directly from the instructor through hands-on practice. Hands are guided by the brain, and the brain carries the understanding of the learned material.

No matter how many very specific educational materials exist, those who truly wish to master medical and sports massage must invest time in reading, reflecting, and grasping the message, the idea, and the essence.

That said, I am not a fan of overwhelming written material—there’s simply no need. Theoretical content, including technique descriptions, should rarely exceed 2,000 words. A quality educational program should dedicate 20% of the time to theoretical explanation and instructor demonstration, and 80% to hands-on student practice. This 20/80 balance is essential. It’s not rocket science—but it requires genuine desire to learn.

Equally important, no one should hesitate to ask questions. As an educator, I firmly believe there are no “stupid” questions—only missed opportunities to learn. Unfortunately, some students in continuing education hesitate to ask because they fear appearing less knowledgeable. In truth, what’s not smart is holding back your curiosity.

Another key concept: while the science of medical massage originates from general biomedical science, it is its own distinct discipline, specifically designed for clinical application in the treatment room.

If you haven’t yet read my articles on the uniqueness of massage science, I strongly encourage you to do so.

https://www.medicalmassage-edu.com/blog/biomedical-science-vs-the-science-of-medical-and-sports-massage-part-1.htm

https://www.medicalmassage-edu.com/blog/medical-massage-prevention-ospinal-fusions-other-orthopedic-surgeries.htm

A Word About Stress Management Massage

I have always advocated for developing specialties such as stress management massage—not to be confused with simple relaxation massage.

My article on this topic was published in Massage Today (August 2005, Vol. 05, Issue 08). Even twenty years ago, there was a critical need for a true specialty in stress management massage—what I call real medical stress management.
Read the article here

Today, that need has only grown. Public health is now deeply affected by the post-COVID pandemic of stress-related illnesses. Unlike 20 years ago—or even just before COVID—the nature of stress today is far more complex and widespread.

Data show that roughly 90% of doctor visits are linked to stress-related conditions. What is often not explained is that post-COVID stress disorders affect patients in multiple, overlapping ways. Most experience two or three symptoms—such as tension headaches, sleep disturbances, or muscle pain—and almost all suffer from some level of cognitive decline.

During the pandemic and the years following, I treated many patients in serious decline. Continuous exposure to stress through media, government policies, and social restrictions led to chronic stress—one of the most dangerous conditions, as it can trigger widespread cognitive deterioration. If left untreated, this may lead to a future dementia pandemic.

I recently presented these findings to a group of MDs. Together, we analyzed 20 documented cases referred to me. The conclusion was clear: without therapeutic intervention, every patient would have continued to experience cognitive decline, including degenerative brain changes.

I am now preparing detailed materials, along with upcoming webinars and live seminars on this vital topic.

If you feel inspired to develop skills in this specialty, I would be glad to share my extensive clinical experience. Those who know me understand that I never make claims without clinical evidence—and I have personally treated hundreds of post-COVID stress-related cases.

For Curious Minds

If you’re interested in deeper picture about methodology of teaching, I recommend reading my article on master classes and how teaching experienced professionals differs from basic continuing education.

https://www.medicalmassage-edu.com/blog/my-new-master-class.htm

I believe the content of the articles linked below helps deepen understanding and increase awareness of common slogans.

https://www.medicalmassage-edu.com/blog/fda-requiring-patient-reported-outcomes-part-1.htm

https://www.medicalmassage-edu.com/blog/fda-requiring-patient-reported-outcomes-part-2.htm

https://www.medicalmassage-edu.com/blog/fda-requiring-patient-reported-outcomes-part-3.htm

Please subscribe to my mailing list to receive notifications about upcoming webinars. I promise—they will be unique and insightful.

Best wishes,
Boris Prilutsky