Toms River Campus – Saturday July 18 & Sunday July 19, 2026 • 9am–6pm
Presented by Matthew Gavzy, LMT, BCTMB
This continuing education course equips massage therapists with the skills to evaluate and address common gait abnormalities using a clinical and evidence-informed approach. Designed to bridge biomechanical understanding with hands-on application, the course explores normal gait mechanics, postural control strategies (ankle and hip), and the pathophysiology of specific gait disorders such as Trendelenburg gait, antalgic gait, drop foot, and Genu Valgum and Varum (Knock-knees and Bowlegged) to name a few.
Through a combination of research-backed instruction and clinical protocols, participants will learn to:
- Recognize and interpret gait deviations using visual and manual assessment tools.
- Understand the muscular, fascial, and neurological mechanisms underlying various gait abnormalities.
- Apply targeted massage therapy techniques (e.g., myofascial release, trigger point therapy, cross-fiber friction) to restore optimal movement.
- Integrate therapist-assisted stretching and corrective exercise strategies to reinforce gait retraining.
- Design home exercise and self-care programs that enhance long-term client outcomes.
This course emphasizes clinical reasoning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the therapeutic role of massage therapy in restoring efficient, pain-free locomotion. Ideal for massage therapists working in sports, rehabilitation, or orthopedic care, this course deepens clinical competence and enhances the quality of care for clients with movement dysfunction.
Instructor Bio
Matthew is a Licensed Massage Therapist with over 25 years of experience. He is a Professional Member of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) and Board Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. He holds AMTA certifications as a Clinical Sports Massage Specialist and Clinical Rehabilitative Massage Specialist. His experience includes working at prestigious events such as the 1996 Atlanta Olympic and Paralympic Games, ATP and WTA Tennis events, AVP Pro Beach Volleyball, and the NY, Boston, and Baltimore Marathons.
Additionally, Matthew holds a BS in Economics from the University of Delaware and is the owner of Body Workings Massage Therapy, which specializes in Orthopedic, Sports, and Chronic Pain Management massage.