Compression strokes are typically applied without lubricant and are performed perpendicular to the surface of the body, pressing the soft tissues directly toward the underlying bone. The therapist may use the heels of the hands, fists, forearms, thumbs, or fingertips depending on the area of the body, the desired depth, and whether the stroke is […]
B. Application of Compression Read More »
The effects of compression depend on how the stroke is applied: its depth, speed, and rhythm. Rhythmic compression stimulates circulation and neuromuscular activity. The pumping motion of the stroke momentarily restricts blood and lymph flow within the compressed tissue. When the pressure is released, this temporary blockage creates a vacuum effect, drawing in a rush
A. Effects of Compression Read More »
Compression is a rhythmic or sustained pressing stroke that compresses the soft tissues. Unlike other Swedish strokes that typically involve sliding across the skin, compression is a non-gliding stroke in which the therapist applies pressure directly downward into soft tissue, compressing the muscle belly, usually against underlying bone. Unlike the gliding strokes of classic Swedish
Lesson 13-8: Compression (Addendum) Read More »
Face Routine Outline Apply a light lotion starting under the chin, coming up around the mouth, around the nose, up the nose to the forehead, and down the sides of the face to the chin. Spread the lotion evenly over the entire face. Apply light effleurage strokes with your fingertips between the eyebrows. Transition into
E. Technique 29: Face Massage Read More »
Foot Massage Outline In the laced fingers hold, the fingertips of each hand are placed on the plantar surface of the foot, lacing them almost but not actually in between the toes. Hang on the foot as if hanging onto a ledge with just your fingertips. Stand on the lateral side of the foot facing
D. Technique 28: Foot Massage Read More »
Technique 26: Passive Joint Movement Techniques Sit at the head of the table and stabilize the shoulder with one hand while the other moves the head and neck into lateral flexion. This movement can be used alone or with a massage stroke. Next, stabilize the shoulder with one hand and use the other hand to
J. Technique 26: Passive Joint Movement Techniques Read More »
Technique 24: Active-Assisted Joint Movements Practice active-assisted joint movements by asking the client to abduct the arm (demonstrate the movement first). The client starts to abduct the arm, and then you help complete the motion at the end of the joint’s ROM. The client begins the motion of hip flexion, and you help complete the
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Technique 25: Active-Resisted Joint Movements Active-resisted joint movements are most often used in ROM assessment and in healthcare massages to build client strength. Later you will learn additional active-resisted techniques. For now, practice resisted shoulder flexion by placing one hand directly above the wrist and the other directly as a guide above the elbow. Ask
I. Technique 25: Active Resisted Joint Movements Read More »
Novice therapists must master individual techniques before trying to combine them in a flowing, integrated professional massage. After mastering these core skills, you can consider how subtle factors like intention, depth, stroke length, and rhythm profoundly influence the client’s massage experience. Therapist’s Intention Chapter 11 describes the importance of centering and grounding before a session.
C. Subtle Factors that Influence Massage Read More »
Routines are a series of strokes planned in advance, delivered to body areas in a preset order, and practiced until they flow smoothly together. Some spas and massage clinics develop set routines that are provided by all of the business’s therapists. These standardized wellness sessions often include enhancing extras like warm packs, aromatherapy, and foot
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