What is Hendrickson Method?

Hendrickson Method® (HM) is an advanced system of massage and manual therapy designed to relieve acute and chronic pain while restoring optimal musculoskeletal function.

HM integrates Wave Mobilization®, a unique form of soft tissue mobilization developed by Dr. Tom Hendrickson, with muscle energy technique (MET) and joint mobilization. Together, these modalities combine with energy healing practices to form a cohesive, clinically grounded method that supports effective, comfortable treatment and sustainable hands-on practice.

Principles of Hendrickson Method

Wave Mobilization

At the heart of Hendrickson Method is Wave Mobilization, a distinctive approach to soft tissue mobilization modeled on the rhythmic movement of ocean waves. This technique uses precise, rhythmic strokes to treat soft tissue and joint dysfunction while promoting deep relaxation and effective clinical results.

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Joint Mobilization

Hendrickson Method includes specific joint mobilization protocols designed to address both acute and chronic joint conditions. These techniques reduce pain and help restore functional movement.

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Muscle Energy Technique (MET) 

MET provides neuromuscular reeducation to help relax tight muscles, strengthen inhibited or weak muscles, reduce trigger points, and improve joint range of motion. In Hendrickson Method, MET is applied within a clear clinical framework to support balanced, functional movement.

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What Makes Hendrickson Method Unique?

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Wave Mobilization®

Wave Mobilization is the signature technique of Hendrickson Method and is unique within the field of massage and manual therapy. Its rhythmic strokes work transverse to soft tissue fibers, dissolving adhesions while promoting relaxation.

  • When soft tissue is injured or dysfunctional, fibers may wind and misalign in specific directional patterns. Hendrickson Method practitioners are trained to identify these patterns and apply Wave Mobilization strokes in precise directions to unwind and realign the tissue.

    The strokes are performed rhythmically at approximately 60 cycles per minute, corresponding to the resting heart rate. This rhythm induces profound relaxation in both client and practitioner and is often experienced as a moving meditation that supports deep therapeutic and energetic change.

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Excellent Clinical Results Even for Beginners

Hendrickson Method emphasizes a clear scientific understanding of injury, repair, and treatment rationale. Practitioners follow specific protocols that support consistent, reproducible clinical outcomes—even early in training.

  • By understanding not only how to perform each technique but why it is applied, practitioners develop confidence and clarity in their work. Hendrickson Method follows a defined sequence of soft tissue mobilization, muscle energy technique, and joint mobilization that is highly effective in reducing pain and restoring optimal function.

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Practitioners Experience Healing Too

Hendrickson Method is designed to support the practitioner as well as the client. Treatments are delivered with relaxed body mechanics and mindful attention, helping practitioners sustain long, healthy careers.

  • Hendrickson Method treatments are taught using the principle of wu wei, or effortless effort—similar to the ease and rhythm of walking. Movements alternate naturally between work and rest, supporting efficiency without strain.

    The method draws on ergonomics, mindfulness, and decades of study in energy healing and tai chi. Through practices such as breath awareness and interoception, practitioners cultivate coherence and presence, supporting both personal well-being and effective therapeutic outcomes.

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Manual Therapy Is Combined with Energy Healing

Hendrickson Method integrates manual therapy with energy healing practices to minimize physical effort while enhancing therapeutic effectiveness.

  • In Hendrickson Method, practitioners learn to work with subtle energy—often referred to as chi—to support healing. This approach emphasizes attunement, presence, and resonance, allowing practitioners to act as conduits for healing energy rather than relying solely on muscular force.

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Treatments Are Given Through Clothing

Hendrickson Method treatments are performed through clothing, making them well suited for a wide range of clinical and therapeutic settings.

  • This approach allows practitioners to work effectively with clients of all ages, including children, adolescents, hospitalized patients, and older adults. Treating through clothing supports comfort, accessibility, and professionalism across diverse populations.

See Also

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About Dr. Hendrickson
A group of people gathered in a room around massage tables, some standing and some sitting. One person is lying on a massage table receiving a demonstration or treatment. There is a presentation projected on a screen at the front of the room. The room is decorated with artwork and has soft, warm lighting.
Online Trainings
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Third Edition Book

  • “In my 25 years as a manual therapist—and more than 15 spent teaching massage—I’ve come to value methods that restore motion and ease pain without creating strain. Hendrickson Method continues to rise above in its gentle precision, working effectively with both acute injuries and long-standing chronic conditions, offering meaningful change quickly and without the force so often relied upon in more traditional techniques. Clients frequently feel a shift right away, and those improvements tend to last. Just as meaningful is how well the method supports a long, sustainable career; after 20 years of a full practice—20-25 clients a week, four days a week—I’ve never sustained a work-related injury. That speaks to its quiet integrity and the thoughtful way it serves both client and practitioner.”

    —Randy Lind, CMT