D – To Drape or not to Drape that is the question (very Shakespearean)
Whether it is better in the mind to suffer ‘Ribbing’ as unnecessary protection, Or take a stand against Poor Practice, And by doing so end it?
(To be, or not to be: that is the question: Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, Or to take arms against a sea of troubles, And by opposing end them?)
Why Drape? Simply put all therapists have a duty of care to the individual receiving the massage and a part of that is to ensure that every intervention they use is delivered in a ‘safe & effective’ manner. The use of towels or ‘drapes’ is to ensure that your client feels safe and protected. Safe in the knowledge that only the areas exposed, with consent, will be massaged and that their modesty is protected along with their clothes.
In addition it acts as a professional demarkation line - professionalism is not just in a title or training but about individual client care, empathy and understanding of their individual needs.
Draping gives confidence to the individual receiving the massage. Effective delivery of some methods and hand-skills comes from having adequate access to the area of concern.
Draping is a ‘skill’ - One that every practitioner should learn to do with the minimum of fuss. To see more join our "Colleagues" community. The following videos demonstrate some of the easiest ways to drape in order to access a number of different areas of the body commonly massaged……Find your inner Shakespeare and stand against poor practice..........Be safe not sorry!