Massage is one of the oldest recognized forms of medical practice. There are many schools of massage, including Swedish, Indian head, sports massage, hot stone, Thai massage and reflexology. Despite the different schools of massage, many of the techniques they use are similar. The aim of all forms of massage is to return your body to a neutral state -- called homeostasis. Once your body is in homeostasis, it is much more able to heal itself. Massage therapy can be effective, but it requires a qualified practitioner.
Effleurage
Effleurage is a stroking movement that encourages blood and lymph circulation. Lymph is the fluid in your lymphatic system, which is like a fluid drainage and filtration system that helps maintain fluid balance throughout your body. Effleurage can be superficial or deep, depending on the client's preference. Performed using one hand, two hands or one hand placed upon the other, effleurage is a starting, linking and finishing movement. This technique also introduces your touch to the client and provides a convenient way to apply oil to the limb about to be treated.
Pétrissage
There are a number of techniques within the pétrissage technique group, including lifting, kneading, rolling and wringing. Each technique mobilizes soft tissue, increases blood flow and promotes flexibility. Squeeze, stretch and lift underlying tissues in specific sequences to enhance muscle and circulatory conditioning. Only perform pétrissage once you have warmed up the underlying tissues with superficial and then deeper effleurage movements.
Tapotement
Tapotement or percussion techniques involve lightly striking the limbs. Tapotement techniques include tapping, cupping, shaking and plucking. Perform this type of technique using a rapid rhythm to stimulate nerve endings and increase superficial circulation. Tapotement is a common part of pre-event sports massage where it is used to "wake up" and excite muscles before a big game or race.
Frictions
Use the deep manipulation techniques of frictions to address tension in localized areas. Frictions can be transverse, which means across the direction of the muscle fibers, or circular. You usually perform this technique using fingertips, thumbs or the heels of your hands, although some deeper techniques may require use of elbows, forearms and even the knees. You can use wooden or plastic tools to save your hands from wear and tear and to apply more pressure to the area being treated. Frictions reduce adhesions, scar tissue and trigger points within muscles.
References
- "Sport & Remedial Massage Therapy"; Mel Cash; 1996
- "Sports Massage"; Susan Findlay; 2010
- "Sports Injuries: A Self-help Guide"; Vivian Grisogono; 1989
