The Hendrickson Method: Safe, Gentle, Effective Manual Therapy
The Hendrickson Method is an advanced form of manual therapy. This method is highly effective for treating many types of orthopedic conditions.
It’s unique in that it takes an integrated approach to treatment by combining various techniques (see below) to address the body as a whole while also addressing the client’s symptoms.
This advanced method is used by physical therapists, chiropractors and massage therapists around the world to treat a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, sports injuries, headaches and much more. It has also been shown to greatly improve clients’ overall health and well-being.
Key Features and Benefits of the Hendrickson Method
Pain Relief and Functional Improvement. The primary goals of the Hendrickson Method are to reduce pain and improve functional movement while activating the parasympathetic (relax and restore) part of the nervous system.
By addressing muscle imbalances, joint restrictions and soft tissue dysfunction in a gentle but highly effective way, the Hendrickson Method aims to alleviate pain, restore proper biomechanics, enhance overall physical performance, but at the same time calm the nervous system and restore one’s sense of ease.
Wave-like Movements:. A distinctive feature of the Hendrickson Method is the use of a unique form of soft tissue massage and mobilization developed by Dr. Hendrickson called Wave Mobilization® that is performed in wave-like movements.
These rhythmic movements during treatment help to release and unwind muscle tension, improve circulation and promote relaxation. The therapist uses their hands, forearms and elbows to apply gentle pressure and create a rhythmic oscillating motion to unwind restricted and contracted tissue restoring function and decreasing pain. This Wave Mobilization® also allows this effective work to be performed while the client is fully clothed.
Joint Mobilizations. The method includes specific joint mobilizations to restore proper joint mechanics and range of motion. By gently mobilizing the joints, the therapist aims to reduce pain, increase joint mobility and improve overall function. Joint mobilizations can be applied to various areas of the body, such as the spine, shoulders, hips and extremities.
Active Engagement. The Hendrickson Method also has clients actively engaged during the treatment session by using Muscle Energy Technique – a manual therapy technique that uses the clients conscious muscle contraction and active stretching to help improve range of motion, reduce pain and stiffness, help to correct muscle imbalances and promote body awareness and encourage the integration of functional movement patterns.
Holistic Approach. The Hendrickson Method considers the interconnectedness of the whole body, taking into account not only the physical aspects but also its emotional and energetic components. It emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to healing and wellness.
The Hendrickson Method recognizes that dysfunction in one area will impact other parts of the body and therefore aims to restore balance and function throughout the musculoskeletal system while also addressing the symptoms.
It is a safe and effective treatment for a wide range of conditions and for people of all ages and fitness levels. It is also gentle enough to be used on infants and pregnant women as well as for acute orthopedic conditions.
Hendrickson Method’s Origins
The Hendrickson Method was developed by Dr. Tom Hendrickson over the course of his 50-year career in the healing arts. Dr. Hendrickson began his studies in the early 1970’s in massage therapy and notably with the Zen priest and Shiatsu Master Riuho Yamada. He later went on to study with other renowned bodywork practitioners, including Lauren Berry, P.T., and Dr. Robert Schleip, student of Ida Rolf and founder of Lomi Work.
Dr. Hendrickson’s work was informed by his deep understanding of anatomy, kinesiology, functional orthopedics and the principles of energy healing. He developed the Hendrickson Method to be a gentle, yet highly effective way to address pain and dysfunction in the musculoskeletal system.
Research about the Hendrickson Method
Here are some additional details about the methodology’s effectiveness and efficiency:
- A study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies in 2012 found that the Hendrickson Method was effective in reducing pain and improving function in people with chronic neck pain. The study participants received 10 sessions of Hendrickson Method over a period of 2 weeks. The results showed that the participants had significantly less pain and improved range of motion after the treatment.
- A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics in 2013 found that the Hendrickson Method was effective in reducing pain and improving function in people with chronic low back pain. The study participants received 12 sessions of Hendrickson Method over a period of 3 weeks. The results showed that the participants had significantly less pain and improved range of motion after the treatment.
- A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2015 found that the Hendrickson Method was effective in reducing pain and improving function in people with fibromyalgia. The study participants received 12 sessions of Hendrickson Method over a period of 4 weeks. The results showed that the participants had significantly less pain and improved range of motion after the treatment.