Did you know your therapist isn't just blindly applying pressure on your body? There are specific techniques in Swedish massage, and each of these movements is designed to serve its own purpose and a different type of massage experience.
1. Effleurage
Effleurage involves long, gentle, gliding, superficial massage techniques that is highly effective and very beneficial, as it increases blood flow to stimulate lymphatic drainage, to increase the body and muscle's temperature, and to promote relaxation. Effleurage is often used at the beginning of a massage to aid in the relaxation of the body as well as at the end of a massage.
2. Petrissage
Petrissage is a much deeper massage technique, it involves kneading and squeezing the muscles to help release any tension within the body and to promote circulating. It can be done with one or both hands and can target specific areas of the body. This technique improves blood flow, relieves knots and muscle spasms, improves muscle function, and increases tissue elasticity.
Petrissage is a great technique to perform after a strenuous workout as it decreases muscle tension, reduces delayed muscle onset soreness, and helps the athlete to recover.
3. Friction
Friction involves rubbing the muscles with firm pressure to help break up adhesions, knots, and trigger points. This technique is commonly used to target specific areas of tension, such as the shoulders or lower back. It can be used to increase circulation, improve flexibility, and can help to reduce pain and inflammation, promoting healing.
This technique is often used to break up scar tissues and promotes the production of healthy tissue to realigning tendon fibres.
4. Vibration
Vibration is a technique of rhythmically shaking certain areas of the body or vibrating motion to help release tension and promote relaxation as well as soothe the body. Vibration can be done with the hands, fingers, or a massage tool, as well as the assistance of a massage gun.
Overall, vibration improves nerve function, muscle relaxation
5. Tapotement
Tapotement involves a series of rapid, rhythmic tapping movements which are used to stimulate the muscles and promote circulation. The technique can be performed with the hands, fists, or fingertips. This technique is used as a warm-up before more intense massage techniques. In addition, it is highly effective to help revitalize sore and tired muscles, which is why it is a technique used often with athletes.
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