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Do you have clients who want/need very deep pressure massage, but you don't know how to offer it without hurting your hands?

Work with your mindset. If you're trying to use lots of pressure while feeling worried or tentative, not only will it translate into your touch, but it could also result in you using mechanically disadvantageous angles and hand tools. By the same token, if you're trying to use your normal massage style, just with lots of pressure, you could set yourself up for injury.

The alternative is to use new angles, and to worry less. Trust your client to be the expert on their unique body, and pour your weight into every move. Use sharper tools, like knuckles and elbows, all while keeping your joints as straight as possible. Think "pushups" and "planks" rather than "Swedish."

When using your thumb for very deep pressure, try to let as little of the movement as possible come from your thumb joints. Set the shape of your hand, and then move your arm and wrist. When possible, take your thumb out of the equation altogether, using a thumbless petrissage grip. And don't forget about the SUPERTHUMB.

What do you think? Do you have any tips to offer? Any other concerns about working with lots of pressure? Let me know in the comments.

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