Purves Versus

Eric Purves

Purves Versus is a podcast for the massage, manual and movement therapist. Eric Purves is a massage therapist, educator, and researcher with a passion to have the massage and musculoskeletal professions embrace current science and start to realize their full potential to help improve the lives of people who are suffering. Eric has been working tirelessly to inspire change in his profession and this podcast is another opportunity for him to express his thoughts, discuss the current evidence, and interview therapists on specific topics. What makes this podcast different? Eric will be exploring topics by focusing on specific themes. These themes will be explored through personal thoughts, experiences, current science, and will feature interviews with massage, manual and movement therapists from across Canada and around the world. New episodes are scheduled to be released every 2 weeks and they will be approximately 60 minutes long.

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Best episodes

Top 10 Purves Versus Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Purves Versus episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Purves Versus for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Purves Versus episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Rethinking Scar Tissue Management in Massage Therapy

Purves Versus

02/27/24 • 54 min

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Ever wondered if everything you've heard about scar tissue and massage therapy is consistent with the evidence? Prepare to have your beliefs challenged as we're joined by Susan Shipton RMT from Toronto, Ontario. In this episode we discuss the myths and realities of scar tissue management in massage therapy, particularly following surgery. We've all heard the tales of aggressive massage techniques "breaking down" scar tissue, but Susan and I, draw from some current research and our shared experiences to illuminate the path that blends scientific inquiry with the tender compassion necessary in our profession.
Scar tissue isn't just a physical hurdle; it's a complex puzzle that intertwines with our body's pain response, healing mechanisms, and psychological well-being. In this episode, we dissect the multifaceted nature of scar formation and the delicate process of recovery, considering everything from the perplexing axillary web syndrome to the influence of gentle touch post-surgery. Susan's insights from her VODER training on manual lymph drainage reinforce our conversation on the kind of soft, evidence-supported care that respects the body's integrity during such a vulnerable time.
Lastly, the management of pain and patient expectations. We address the pressing need for honesty and realism when discussing treatment outcomes with patients, exploring how reassessing our approach to scar tissue can lead to more effective healing journeys. Susan and I examine the critical role of movement and touch in not just improving physical symptoms but also in supporting patients' psychological recovery, helping them to embrace and integrate changes to their bodies. Join us as we offer a nuanced perspective that challenges convention and encourages a deeper understanding of the body's response to trauma and therapy.

Support the show

Head on over to my website. This includes my blog and a list of all my upcoming courses, webinars, blogs and self-directed learning opportunities.
www.ericpurves.comMy online self-directed courses can be found here:
https://ericpurves.thinkific.com/collections
Please connect with me on social media

FB: @ericpurvesrmt

IG: @eric_purves_rmtYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ericpurves2502
Would you like to make a donation to help support the costs of running my podcast?
You can buy me a coffee by clicking here

Shifting Focus in Rehabilitation: A Conversation with Marcus Blumensaat RMT

Purves Versus

11/10/23 • 69 min

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The status quo in the world of musculoskeletal healthcare needs to change. Bridging the gap between outdated norms, current practice standards and evidence-based care is what Marcus Blumensaat is working hard to do. In this episode we welcome Marcus, a registered massage therapist and continuing education provider, who shares his journey as a clinician, family man and a CE instructor. Also, Marcus shares his peculiar interest in watches!
Venturing beyond the traditional scope, we shed light on the overlooked significance of exercise and movement prescription and question the overemphasis on passive therapies. Marcus takes us through the insightful concept of 'movement optimism' and the need to shift perspective towards the abilities of patients rather than their disabilities. Together, we demystify common myths about posture and biomechanics and discuss the integral role of listening and ruling out red flags while empowering individuals to resume their beloved activities.
Finally, we steer towards the crucial transition from patho-anatomical, tissue-based models to evidence-based behavioral sciences in musculoskeletal healthcare. We explore the art of patient-centered care, therapeutic alliances, and effective communication strategies. Wrapping up, we navigate the intricate waters of healthcare regulation and the role of continuing education in crafting proficient healthcare professionals.
Marcus can be contacted through his website, www.marcusblumensaat.com
or via email, [email protected]

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FB: @ericpurvesrmt

The Importance of Regulation in Massage Therapy: A Conversation with Michelle Smith & Monty Churchman

Purves Versus

12/09/23 • 66 min

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In this episode we navigate the challenges and joys of working in an unregulated province with experienced massage therapists, Michelle Smith and Monty Churchman. From the ins and outs of insurance battles to the complexities of labor mobility, Michelle and Monty shed light on the lesser-known aspects of this profession and how it's shaped by the absence of regulation. They candidly share their personal experiences, including Monty's disappointment over the Olympics hurdle, adding a personal touch to the broader issues at play.
We explore the role of massage therapy associations, as we journey through their strenuous efforts to establish a regulatory college in Saskatchewan. Unpack the history and the financial implications of these associations with us. Listen in as we highlight the role of associations in the profession and emphasize the importance of quality assurance and ongoing education.
Finally, we conclude our discussion with a focus on the future. Michelle offers her valuable insights on the need for improved regulation and the mammoth potential within the massage therapy profession. Hear from us about the current state of entry-to-practice education and the daunting task of establishing a standardized curriculum among various schools. We also highlight the importance of board exams and evidence-based education in maintaining the integrity of the profession. So don't miss out on this episode - it's one that promises to expand your understanding of the profession.

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FB: @ericpurvesrmt

The New RMT Experience with Christian Lacsamana

Purves Versus

09/26/23 • 70 min

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Welcome Christian Lacsamana to Purves Versus and to the profession of massage therapy. Christian is a new RMT in Vancouver, BC. He was previously a kinesiologist who decided he wanted to pursue a career in massage therapy so he could offer additional benefits to his clients rather than just exercise and movement.

Our conversation focuses on his experiences in school and what his first year of practice has been like. Christian shares what he enjoyed and what he felt could be improved upon in the curriculum and he tells us about the future endeavours he wants to pursue as an RMT.

We discuss the mixed messaging in RMT education, the importance of language and communication styles, the importance of mental health and ongoing self-care and how creating a sense of community and support in embracing change in how continuing education is delivered is necessary for moving forward as a profession.
To learn more about my virtual learning community, the Manual and Movement Therapist’s Community (MMTC) please visit here;
https://ericpurves.lpages.co/mmtc-sales-page-1

You can sign up free for your first month using the discount code, mmtcfree.

Connect with me.
www.ericpurves.com

[email protected]

FB: @ericpurvesrmt

IG: @eric_purves_rmt

Subscribe to my email list. Receive notification for new episodes as well as bonus content and course discounts

https://ericpurves.lpages.co/podcast

Support the show

FB: @ericpurvesrmt

Reflecting on Growth and Moving Forward in 2024

Purves Versus

12/29/23 • 29 min

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It's been a great journey since the podcast's inception, and your support has catapulted us across 15 countries with a burgeoning community of listeners. This special New Year episode is a toast to you, as we reflect on the strides we've made and the ground we're set to break. Your voices are the backbone of this platform, so consider this your invitation to shape our future episodes with your insights and curiosity.
This episode isn't just a retrospective glance; it's a discussion of the path forward. I'm rolling out two brand new hands-on courses that address common and complex concerns for lower back, pelvic, neck, and shoulder pain. I want to move these courses from theory into a evidence-based approaches. I will also be presenting a number of webinars and my foray into industry conferences, where I'll be demystifying the complexities of chronic pain management for therapists.

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FB: @ericpurvesrmt

Engaging in Cultural Safety, Reconciliation, and Indigenous Identity with Susan Dupuis RMT

Purves Versus

10/05/23 • 71 min

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Today, we're thrilled to introduce you to Susan Dupuis, an RMT and educator from Manitoba. She's here to engage us in a poignant dialogue about cultural safety and reconciliation. Our conversation kicks off with a symbolic offering of tobacco, setting the stage for a respectful and open discussion. Get an insight into Susan's captivating presentation titled, "10 Things for RMTs to Learn about Reconciliation" and explore her background, and her educational journey.
Listen closely as Susan reveals what inspired her to enter the realm of education and her thoughts on cultivating therapists. We then shift our lens to the profound issue of intergenerational trauma and the power of touch, linking it to our nervous system and our inherent need for emotional bonding.
Our conversation takes a heartfelt turn as Susan recounts her personal quest of reconnecting with her Anishinaabe identity. Learn how this newfound understanding led her to question the potential impact of therapist age on the profession and the concept of Indigenous massage therapy. As we wrap up, reflect with us on the criticality of addressing intergenerational trauma and the importance of reclaiming an Indigenous identity for RMTs and their clients.
Purves Versus can also be found on YouTube.
Please connect with me:
www.ericpurves.com
Facebook - @ericpurvesrmt
Instagram - @eric_purves_rmt
If you would like to check out my virtual educational community for RMTs, please visit here:
https://ericpurves.thinkific.com/courses/the-manual-therapist-s-community
You can get your first month free using the coupon code, mmtcfree.

Support the show

FB: @ericpurvesrmt

Finding Balance as a Clinician and Continuing Education Instructor with Walt Fritz

Purves Versus

06/30/23 • 70 min

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In this episode Walt tells us about his clinical and educational experiences and how he made the transition from being heavily invested as an MFR focused therapist into being an evidence-based clinician.
We discuss the importance of finding an acceptable balance in our understanding, our communication and how we teach continuing education. Our treatment interventions aren’t always just about one tissue or a special technique, they are more complex than that and the outcomes people experience are more strongly related to the strength of the therapeutic relationship.
The willingness to embrace shared decision making is the core premise of what he wants learners to take away from his courses.
Research articles:
(Geri, 2019) Manual Therapy: Exploiting the Role of Human Touch
(Bialosky, 2017). Unravelling the Mechanisms of Manual Therapy: Modelling an Approach
Connect with Eric.
www.ericpurves.com
[email protected]
FB: @ericpurvesrmt
IG: @eric_purves_rmt
Subscribe to my email list and receive notification for new episodes and be the first to gain access to all my courses:
https://ericpurves.lpages.co/podcast

Support the show

FB: @ericpurvesrmt

Welcome to the Purves Versus Podcast

Purves Versus

04/17/23 • 13 min

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Welcome to my new podcast, Purves Versus! This short episode outlines why I have a podcast and the objectives I hope it will help achieve.

In future episodes we will discuss topics specific to our industry while exploring current trends, and evidence based content. I will be doing this through a series of solo episodes, but also I will be interviewing therapists from across the world. Some of our topics will include the value of mythbusting and I have interviews with those who use social media and other platforms to bust those myths. The new RMT experience, how did this prepare them for the real world of clinical practice, CEC providers, the educational experience going to school in an unregulated province, we will also explore modality empires and the role of professional associations and how they influence the profession and its various stakeholders.

Thanks for listening!

Please connect with me.

www.ericpurves.com

Email: [email protected]

Subscribe to my mailing list and get notified of new episodes

https://ericpurves.lpages.co/podcast

My socials:

FB: @ericpurvesrmt

IG: @eric_purves_rmt

Twitter: @ericpurves1

Support the show

FB: @ericpurvesrmt

Higher Education, Evidence-Based Practice and the Future of Massage Therapy

Purves Versus

01/17/24 • 53 min

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In this episode we welcome Nadine Hawryluk to discuss her academic and professional journey while exploring what the CMTBCs new standard of practice for evidence-based massage therapy could mean for the future of our profession, both in schools as well as in practice. As a recent master's graduate and an RMT from Courtenay, BC, Nadine brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion.
Nadine details her journey from body worker to registered massage therapist, unveiling the pivotal role that advanced education plays in bridging the gap between theory and practice.
We highlight the skill sets required for excellence in the realm of massage and manual therapy education and practice. We delve into the importance of a solid grasp of physiology and the art of patient communication, emphasizing that therapy extends beyond mere technique to encompass compassionate, holistic care. My own narrative of educational transformation serves as a testament to the power of knowledge, illustrating how it has reshaped my professional identity and enhanced my patient interactions.
Navigating the changing tides of healthcare regulation in British Columbia, we explore the anticipated shifts within professions such as massage therapy, chiropractic, and acupuncture, envisioning a future where evidence-based practice is the cornerstone of our professions. We confront the challenges of integrating into the broader healthcare system, emphasizing the necessity for continued professional development grounded in scientific rigor. By adhering to such stringent standards, we advocate for the elevation of manual therapies and the creation of a more credible and respected community of health practitioners.
To connect with Nadine please visit her on Linkdin through this link:
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/nadine-hawryluk_when-thinking-about-evidence-based-practice-activity-7151696770148831232-f1x-?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
Or you can connect with Nadine here:
https://nadinehawryluk.wordpress.com/

Support the show

FB: @ericpurvesrmt

The Student RMT Experience with Courtney Olmstead

Purves Versus

09/11/23 • 76 min

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This is the second episode in my series on new RMTs. Today we have Courtney, who is an RMT in Halifax, Nova Scotia. We had a great conversation about the need to adapt RMT entry to practice curriculum to make it consistent with current evidence and how the industry and more importantly the public would benefit from a shift in thinking from fixing people to providing more meaningful support and management.

At the time of this recording she was just finishing her studies in RMT school. Courtney started to develop a sense of skepticism during her entry to practice education so she started to search for information outside of her school environment. This led her in a search for updated knowledge which was challenging everything she was learning in school. When presenting this new information to her instructors she was frustrated because she was encouraged to not ask questions and to simply accept the knowledge that she was being presented with.

Courtney’s experience is not unique as it demonstrates some of the common problems our profession has with its entry to practice curriculum. We share a few suggestions of a better way forward which we hope the stakeholders will adopt.

Some wise words to take away from this episode, the more I learn the more I realize I need to know

To learn more about my virtual learning community, the Manual and Movement Therapist’s Community (MMTC) please visit here;
https://ericpurves.lpages.co/mmtc-sales-page-1

You can sign up free for your first month using the discount code, mmtcfree.

Connect with me.
www.ericpurves.com

[email protected]

FB: @ericpurvesrmt

IG: @eric_purves_rmt

Subscribe to my email list. Receive notification for new episodes as well as bonus content and course discounts

https://ericpurves.lpages.co/podcast

Support the show

FB: @ericpurvesrmt