About Hendrickson Method

Hendrickson Method® (HM) is a comprehensive system of massage and manual therapy that efficiently and effectively reduces pain and restores function in musculoskeletal disorders, while also providing relaxation.

HM’s focus on cultivating a mindfulness practice and good body mechanics maximizes therapeutic effectiveness while supporting a long pain-free career for the practitioner.

HM protocols synthesize three modalities:

  • Soft Tissue Mobilization: a unique form of STM created by Dr. Tom Hendrickson called wave mobilization ® , which mobilizes the soft tissue in rhythmic oscillations transverse to the fibers, to the rhythm of the resting heartbeat.

  •  Muscle Energy Technique: a form of neuromuscular reeducation that improves the functional communication between the nervous system and the muscles.

  • Joint Mobilization: addresses underlying causes of dysfunction. HM uses passive mobilization to assess joint function and induce “joint play,” which helps restore normal function and ROM to both acute and chronic joint problems.

Therapy for optimum function, rather than just symptomatic relief

A unique aspect of Hendrickson Method is that it provides treatment for the joints and nervous system as well as for the soft tissue. This exceptional system of therapy provides long-term benefits far beyond what is possible with conventional massage because it helps the body achieve optimum function rather than just making symptoms temporarily go away. Precise and extremely effective, Hendrickson Method is suitable therapy for most orthopedic conditions including low back and neck pain, hip degeneration, and rotator cuff injuries. 

Rehabilitation and relaxation in tandem

Hendrickson Method combines the rehabilitative benefits of manual therapy with the relaxing effects of massage. Clients receive a gentle session that provides pain-relief and functional rehabilitation. From infants to the elderly, everyone can benefit from Hendrickson Method. This gentle therapy is comfortable to receive and can be done fully clothed and without oil.

Healing touch with natural rhythms

At the heart of Hendrickson Method is a new massage stroke called wave mobilization® which was developed by Dr. Tom Hendrickson during his forty years of clinical practice. Based on the internal energy healing of Tai Chi, these strokes are performed in gentle, rhythmic oscillations that mimic ocean waves and penetrate deep within the body, reducing or eliminating pain, dissolving adhesions, lengthening connective tissue, eliminating trigger points, improving range of motion in the joints, rehabilitating cartilage and discs, and helping to restore normal neurological function.

Healing for both client and therapist 

By using the “internal energy” described in Tai Chi, there is a departure from the physical demands of traditional massage and manual therapy techniques. Hendrickson Method therapists learn to stay relaxed and supple, allowing energy to move through them with minimal muscular effort. Wave mobilization is akin to a “moving meditation” and leads to a process of “letting go” for the therapist. This process of letting energy move through you creates an energetic opening and personal transformation. Most students report profound positive changes in their daily lives from learning and practicing Hendrickson Method.

For more information about Dr. Tom Hendrickson and Hendrickson Method, visit the Hendrickson Method website.