Question:

A physician refers a client for massage for enhancement of circulation to the limbs. The client complains of cold hands and feet. Assessment indicates decreased pliability of the tissues around the elbows and knees. Work related activities require repetitive movement in these areas. The massage professional presents three main approaches for the physician to consider:
(1) General massage and rest
(2) General massage with connective tissue stretching in restricted areas
(3) Compression focused specifically on the arteries to encourage circulation
After considering all three options, the physician eliminates number 1 as too time consuming. Option 2 seems viable, but the client does not respond well to methods that may be painful. Option 3 seems too limited an approach to the massage professional. The decision is to begin with option 3 and expand to connective tissue methods when the client is able to tolerate them. Which part of this process best reflects brainstorming possibilities?