OSCE Station 1 : Remedial Exercise / Self Care

Massage Therapy Board Exam Review

OSCE Station 1: Remedial Exercise / Self Care

When studying for the OSCE exam, remember to master the stretches and the strengthening exercises (both isometric and isotonic)  for all the muscle groups – or even better, specific muscles. (e.g. semitendinosus as opposed to hamstrings)

Strengthening:

Isometric Exercise:

Hold contractions for 5 seconds, 8-10 reps, 2-3 sets. 3-4 times a week.

( 30 seconds to 1 min. break between sets )

Isotonic Exercise:

10- 12 reps. 3 sets.>> once a day, 3 to 4 times a week.

( 30 seconds to 1 min. break between sets )

Stretching:

Hold each stretch for at least 30 seconds, breathe while you stretch, after 30 seconds, you may:

– move into a deeper stretch. hold again for 30 seconds

– take break ( 30 seconds to 1 min. break between sets ) then repeat stretch

* 2-3 sets, everyday

Important Notes:

As a Massage Therapist, it is important to remind the client that:

• Stretching and Strengthening exercises are to be stopped when pain is felt. Explain to the client the difference between a stretch sensation and a pain sensation if they are new to strengthening and stretching.
• It is important to breathe while you stretch and strengthen.

To review the proper stretches for each muscle or muscle group, I found this helpful physiotherapy website. This website has short exercise video clips with narration which demonstrates typical exercises prescribed by physical therapists and massage therapists.

http://www.cyberpt.com/cptvidlist.asp .

It is important to teach the client the proper way of targeting and stretching a specific muscle.