Vibration And Massage Therapy

Vibration is used sporadically during a standard Swedish massage session. This technique can be performed either with the fingers or with the aid of an electronic device. It's a quick and effective way to relax the underlying muscles, and you can perform self vibration with most electronic massagers.

Technique

When performed by hand, the vibration technique requires the therapist to put his fingers on the targeted area of skin. The therapist will quickly move his fingers back and forth. This trembling movement moves the skin of the client and mimics shivering or trembling. This is a light pressure technique that does not go deep into the muscles. The Institute for Integrative Healthcare Studies suggests that vibration can be applied for up to 20 seconds on a single point.

Purpose

Bodybuilding.com notes that vibration is used to stimulate the blood flow in the underlying area, which in turn helps drain off any waste and debris that accumulated during the massage. Vibration also relaxes the superficial muscles, so the therapist may use vibration to warm up the body before performing deep tissue bodywork.

Timing

Bodybuilding.com notes that vibration usually comes at the end of the massage session. Vibration provides the client with a small jolt of energy. By performing vibration at the end of the session, the therapist helps prevent post-session drowsiness.

Scar Tissue

The Institute for Integrative Healthcare Studies points out that vibration is used in tandem with friction to help break up adhesions and scar tissues. The therapist will dig into the client's scar tissue with their fingers using the friction technique. Once the scar tissue starts to break up, the therapist will perform vibration to the area to bring blood to the area and dislodge any tissue waste that was created.

Electronic Devices

The therapist may tire if large areas of the body require targeted vibration. Electronic devices can be employed to provide the desired effect. Many electronic massagers come equipped with a vibrate function for this purpose.