Massage & Anatomy Reference Library for Bodyworkers

This reference library is designed for massage therapists and bodyworkers seeking clear, clinically relevant information. The articles cover massage techniques, anatomy fundamentals, and practical concepts intended for long-term reference and real-world application.

Assessment for Massage Therapists

This section focuses on assessment, observation, and clinical decision-making in massage therapy. The articles explain how to evaluate movement, posture, joint function, and structural relationships in order to guide effective treatment strategies. For therapists who want to apply assessment within a full clinical framework, our Structural Massage Online Course shows how to use assessment to build coherent, results-oriented treatment plans.

Neck lateral flexion

Easy Assessment for Massage Therapists

Only a small fraction of massage therapists use any assessment testing in their practice.
Structural massage on the shoulder

Functional Range of Motion Therapy: Why Movement Quality Matters More Than Quantity

Range of motion is often treated as a numbers game: more is better, less is worse.
Look at the forward shoulder poster, two people standing looking at posture, talking about structural massage.

Posture Correction Therapy: Understanding Structure, Not Just Alignment

Posture is often reduced to the idea of “standing up straight,” but in real bodies posture is something far more complex.
structural-massage on the arm

How to Improve Joint Mobility: A Structural Approach for Manual Therapists

Joint mobility is one of the most important—and most misunderstood—components of human movement.

Shoulder Girdle and Arm Functional Anatomy for Massage Therapists

The shoulder is not built like the hip. It is not a deep, stable socket designed primarily for weight-bearing.

Myofascial Release

This section covers the theory and application of myofascial release in manual therapy. The articles explore the role of fascia in pain and movement restriction, how myofascial techniques work, and how they can be integrated into treatment sessions. If you want a step-by-step clinical framework for this modality, our Myofascial Release Online Course provides in-depth training. This hub is designed to build both conceptual understanding and clinical reasoning around fascial work.

cross handed stretches

Myofascial Release Manual

This myofascial release manual provides a clear overview of fascial release principles, common techniques, and session integration for massage therapists and bodyworkers.
anatomy body man with question marks

Myofascial Release Knowledge Quiz

This short quiz checks your understanding of core concepts therapists should know before using myofascial techniques in a clinical session.
myofascial release to the arm

How to Integrate Myofascial Release into a Massage Session

When should myofascial release be used in a massage session? Myofascial…
Myofascial release cross handed stretch to the upper back

Myofascial Release Techniques Explained

What are myofascial release techniques? Myofascial release…
Myofascial release cross handed stretches to the posterior leg

What Is Myofascial Release Massage?

What Is Myofascial Release Massage? What is myofascial release…

Trigger Point Therapy

This section focuses on trigger points, referral patterns, and their role in musculoskeletal pain. The articles explain what trigger points are, how they develop, and how trigger point therapy fits into orthopedic and clinical massage work. For a broader structural and clinical framework that integrates trigger point work, see our Orthopedic Massage Online Course.

How Trigger Point Therapy Fits Into Orthopedic Massage Treatment

Trigger point therapy is often taught as a standalone technique, but in clinical practice it works best as part of a broader treatment approach.

Trigger Point Referral Patterns Explained for Massage Therapists

One of the most confusing parts of working with pain is that the place a client feels discomfort is often not where the problem starts. Trigger points are a common reason for this.
Sternocleidomastoid trigger points

What Is Trigger Point Therapy in Massage? A Practical, Clinical Explanation

Trigger point therapy is a focused massage approach used to address localized areas of muscular tension that refer pain to other parts of the body.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage

This section explores the anatomy, physiology, and clinical application of manual lymphatic drainage. The articles here cover how the lymphatic system works, how lymph moves through the body, and how gentle lymphatic techniques can be used safely and effectively in clinical and wellness settings. For therapists who want structured, in-depth training, our Lymphatic Drainage Massage Online Course provides a complete clinical learning path. This hub supports both foundational understanding and practical integration of lymphatic drainage into therapeutic massage.

the lymphatic system with question marks

Lymphatic Drainage Quiz: Test Your Knowledge of Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a precise and clinically grounded modality that relies on a clear understanding of anatomy, physiology, and therapeutic intent.
Lymphatic drainage wall chart

Lymphatic Drainage Map: A Clinical Reference for Massage Therapists

A good lymphatic drainage map does something simple but powerful: it gives you orientation.

Beyond the Basics: How to Integrate Lymphatic Drainage into a Wellness Massage

Many massage therapists feel they have to choose between a clinical…
lymphatic drainage on the foot

Lymphatic Drainage Techniques

All the Lymphatic Drainage techniques are based on one principle motion.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage-article

Cranial Sacral Therapy

This section focuses on the principles, anatomy, and clinical concepts behind cranial sacral therapy. The articles explain how the craniosacral system functions, how the cranial rhythm is understood, and how this gentle modality supports nervous system regulation and whole-body balance. For a complete, structured approach to this work, see our Cranial Sacral Therapy Online Course. This hub provides conceptual clarity for both students and practicing therapists.

cranial hold on the frontal bone

Cranial Sacral Therapy Manual

This cranial sacral therapy manual provides a clear overview of cranial anatomy, cerebrospinal fluid rhythm, and core principles of cranial-sacral work.
cranial bones with question marks for each area.

Cranial Sacral Therapy Knowledge Quiz

This short quiz is designed to test your understanding of the core principles, anatomy, and therapeutic concepts behind cranial sacral therapy.
cross section of the cranium showing the meninges

What Is the Cranial Rhythm in Cranial Sacral Therapy?

The cranial rhythm is a subtle, palpable motion perceived throughout the body and traditionally described within craniosacral and osteopathic manual therapy.
cranium with two bones listed.

What Conditions Is Cranial Sacral Therapy Used For?

Cranial therapy is used to support the body’s capacity for regulation, adaptation, and self-repair. Rather than targeting isolated symptoms,
reciprocal tension membrane

How Does Cranial Sacral Therapy Work?

Craniosacral therapy works by supporting the body’s inherent ability to regulate itself.

Thai Massage

This section explores the principles, movement patterns, and therapeutic logic of Thai massage. The articles cover how Thai massage works, how sessions are structured, and how it integrates with other manual therapy approaches. For a complete training system in this modality, see our Mastering Thai Massage Online Course. This hub supports both traditional Thai massage practice and modern clinical integration.

Thai massage on the arm

How Thai Massage Integrates with Other Massage Modalities

Thai massage is often taught as its own system, but in real practice many therapists blend Thai techniques with other modalities.

Thai Massage Movement Principles and Sequencing

Thai massage is built around movement. While pressure and compression are part of the method, the defining feature is how the session progresses

What Is Thai Massage? A Clinical and Practical Explanation

Thai massage is a therapeutic bodywork tradition that combines assisted stretching, rhythmic compression, and deliberate movement to improve mobility and reduce tension.
Thai massage side posture

Traditional Thai Massage for Short-Term Back Pain Management

Traditional Thai massage, or TTM, is part of traditional Thai…

Sports Massage

This section focuses on sports massage as a clinical and performance-support modality. The articles explain how sports massage works, when to use it, and how it supports recovery, injury prevention, and athletic performance. For therapists who work with active clients and athletes, our Sports Massage Online Course offers a comprehensive, clinically oriented approach. This hub supports evidence-informed sports massage practice.

Sports Massage for the ankle

How Sports Massage Supports Recovery

Recovery is a critical component of performance. Sports massage supports recovery by helping the body transition out of high-load states and back toward balance.
Sports Massage standing analysis

How Does Sports Massage Work?

Sports massage works by influencing how soft tissues respond to physical stress. Through skilled manual contact, it supports circulation,
Piriformis technique

What Is Sports Massage?

Sports massage is a form of manual therapy designed to support athletic performance, recovery, and injury prevention.
Stretching during a Sports Massage session

Massage Post-Workout: A Quick Update

Massage after exercise, especially for athletes, is no new phenomenon.…

Muscle Energy Technique

This section focuses on Muscle Energy Technique (MET) as a precise and effective orthopedic manual therapy approach. The articles explain how MET works, the different forms it can take, and how it is used to improve joint mobility, muscle length, and neuromuscular coordination. For structured clinical training, our Muscle Energy Technique Online Course provides a complete system for applying MET in practice. This hub supports structural and orthopedic applications of MET.

Articular vs Muscle MET

Muscle Energy Technique (MET) is used in two distinct ways: articular MET and muscle MET. Although both use isometric contraction, their goals and clinical applications are different.

How Muscle Energy Technique Works

Muscle Energy Technique (MET) works not through force, but through neurological precision. To use it effectively, therapists must understand three core ideas:

What Is Muscle Energy Technique

Muscle Energy Technique (MET) is a precise, low-force manual therapy method that uses the client’s own muscle contractions to restore normal joint motion and muscle function.

Nerve Mobilization

This section covers nerve mobilization and neurodynamic techniques in manual therapy. The articles explain how nerves move, how neural tension and irritation develop, and how nerve gliding and tensioning techniques can be used safely in treatment. For a full clinical framework, see our Nerve Mobilization Online Course. This hub supports a modern, neurologically informed approach to pain and movement restriction.

wrist nerves

Nerve Mobilization Knowledge Quiz

This short quiz checks your clinical and anatomical understanding of nerve mobilization
Nerve mobilization for the tibial-nerve

Nerve Mobilization in Massage: When to Use It and How to Sequence It

Nerve mobilization can be one of the most effective tools in clinical massage when symptoms behave like nerve symptoms:
Ulnar nerve example on the inner elbow

Nerve Gliding vs Nerve Tensioning: A Safe Progression for Manual TherapistsSuggested

In clinical massage and orthopedic massage, nerve mobilization often gets reduced to the phrase “nerve glides.”
Doug performing nerve mobilization on the foot.

What Is Nerve Mobilization? A Clinical Guide for Massage Therapists

Nerve mobilization (also called neural mobilization or neurodynamics) is a clinical approach used to restore healthy movement and tolerance in peripheral nerves.

Massage Techniques

This section covers hands-on massage techniques and modalities used in professional practice. The articles focus on application, technique principles, and clinical context.

Thumbs on the forehead with three lines indicating the sequence of massage.

Massage Session Sequence Considerations

When performing massage, it’s important to think about where…

Slow-Stroke Back Massage to Treat Leukemia

Leukemia, sometimes referred to as blood cancer, affects the blood forming tissues in the body. This can make an individual prone to excessive bleeding and infection.
Sean Riehl teaches the secrets of massage.

Massage Secrets for an Effective Massage

This quick video will give you Sean Riehl's top 3 secrets for…

Lower Back Pain Treatment Through Ayurvedic Massage

    Lower back pain may be a familiar discomfort…
Reflexology foot chart

What Foot Reflexology Can Do For Pregnancy Labor

Researchers Hanjani, Tourzani, and Shoghi (2015) wanted to investigate…

Clinical Concepts

Articles in this section explore clinical and physiological concepts that support massage therapy practice, including research summaries, pain science, and treatment rationale.

Aromatherapy Massage for Post-Surgery ICU Patients

Researchers Özlü and Bilican (2017) know about the empirical evidence that indicates massage’s efficacy as an alternative or complementary therapy
positional release for achilles tendon

Plantar Foot Massage to Treat Type 2 Diabetes Mobility and Balance Symptoms

An unfortunate reality for many people affected by type 2 diabetes…

The Overactive Trapezius and Massage: a Study

Sore shoulders and neck are no uncommon enemy – many individuals…
lateral neck positional release technqiue

Massage Therapy as Additional Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Over two million people worldwide have multiple sclerosis (MS),…

Seven Benefits of Massage

Finding time to yourself is becoming increasingly difficult…
Face massage on an infant

Postpartum Anxiety and Massage

Many mothers can attest that motherhood is no easy feat. Perhaps…

Massage Therapy as Complementary Treatment for Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) affects approximately 1 million Americans,…
fists on the back massage techniques

Osteoarthritis and Massage Therapy

Researchers published results of their study (Ali, Rosenberger,…
Cranial ear pull

Massage found to improve post-stress immune response.

A recent study found that a patient’s stress response can affect…

Massage Anatomy

Anatomy reference materials for massage therapists, including muscle groups and anatomical terminology relevant to massage assessment and hands-on treatment.

Upper Body Muscles
Overview of upper body musculature including the neck, shoulders, arms, and torso with functional and clinical reference information.

Lower Body Muscles
Guide to lower body muscle anatomy including hips, thighs, and lower legs, with relevance to movement and hands-on assessment.

various anatomy images and muscles including giving a back massagereal bodywork 2026

Anatomy for Bodyworkers: A Practical Learning Hub

Learning anatomy for massage and bodywork is not about memorizing isolated parts.
Human bones wall chart

Skeletal System Overview: Functional Anatomy for Massage Therapists

The human skeletal system provides the structural framework that defines our shape, supports our weight, protects internal organs, and functions as the foundation for movement.
Joint ROM

Joint Range of Motion: Functional Reference for Massage Therapists

Joint range of motion (ROM) describes the degrees through which a joint can move in its normal planes.
various anatomy images and muscles including giving a back massagereal bodywork 2026

Anatomy Terms

This glossary preserves and modernizes a full classical anatomy vocabulary used in massage therapy, bodywork, and manual therapy education

Visual & Poster Resources

Visual learning resources such as charts, diagrams, and posters designed for quick anatomical and technique reference.

Infographic Posters
Collection of visual reference posters covering anatomy, lymphatic drainage, reflexology, joint range of motion, pain patterns, and skeletal structure.

Lymphatic drainage wall chart
Lymphatic drainage wall chart
Reflexology chart
Reflexology chart
Joint ROM
Joint ROM
Poster showing various types of shoulder pain
Poster showing various types of shoulder pain
Back pain poster
Back pain poster
Neck pain infographic
Neck pain infographic
Human bones wall chart
Human bones wall chart

Author Bio

About the Author: Sean Riehl

Sean Riehl is the founder of Real Bodywork and a leading expert in massage therapy and bodywork education with over 25 years of experience. A pioneer in clinical instruction, Sean has authored numerous textbooks and produced over 40 instructional videos used by massage schools and practitioners worldwide.

Specializing in Anatomy, Physiology, and Lymphatic Drainage, Sean’s teaching philosophy focuses on making complex clinical techniques accessible and effective. He has trained thousands of therapists in advanced modalities, including Trigger Point Therapy and Myofascial Release.

Beyond his clinical and educational work, Sean has been a driving force in the wellness industry’s growth. In 2022, he was a founding member of iFlex Stretch Studios, a premier assisted stretching franchise. Following the acquisition of iFlex by the founders of StretchLab in late 2024, Sean served as the Vice President of Training through 2025. In this role, he worked closely with the executive team to elevate training standards and curriculum for hundreds of practitioners before retiring from the position at the end of the year to focus on his educational legacy.