Introduction to STM

Mechanical effect of massage

caused by physically moving the tissues with compression, tension, shearing, bending, or twisting

Example of mechanical effect

increased lymphatic return, improves blood circulation, mobilized bronchial secretions

Reflex effect of massage

functional change mediated by the nervous system

Example of reflex effect

sedation or arousal, facilitation of muscle contraction

Physiologic effect of massage

involves a change in biochemical body processes

Example of physiologic effect

improved modeling of connective tissue, reduced muscle spasm

Psychological effect of massage

effects occur in mind, emotions, or behavior

Example of psychological effect on massage

improved social interaction, improved self image

Psychoneuroimmunological effect on massage

altered feeling state accompanied by changes in hormone level or immune function (relaxation)

Example of Psychoneuroimmunological effect

decreased anxiety and cortisol levels, improves T cell function

Energetic effect on massage

direct effects on the clients biomagnetic field

Example of energetic effect

improved biomagnetic field pattern, improved energy flow

Mobility of a joint

range and ease of movement

Stability of a joint

structural integrity

Mobility of a bone

scapula, pelvis, carpal

Muscle power

force generated by contraction

Muscle tone

tension present in resting muscles

Muscle endurance

sustaining muscle contraction for a required period

Superficial reflex techniques

priming the system, superficial stroking, static connect, fine vibration, engages on the skin and promotes relaxation and establishes rapport

Superficial fluid technique

to get fluid flowing, effleurage, superficial lymp drainage, gliding technique the engages tissue superficial to the muscle, light pressure in direction of venous and lymphatic flow

Neuromuscular techniques (traditional massage)

broad contact compression, petrissage (squeezing, c kneading, broad contact needing, stripping)

Stripping

gliding technique for trigger points

Specific compression

static technique for trigger points

Connective tissue techniques

skin rolling, myofascial release (gliding and nongliding, friction (cross friction), lengthens and promotes remodeling of connective tissue after injury

Passive movement techniques

shaking, rhythmic mobilization, rocking, treats restrictions in tissues and structures, palpate movement

Percussive techniques

used for airway clearance, proprioceptive stimulation, levels of arousal, pain relief

Contraindications for STM

acute flare, aneurysms, frostbite, contagious skin condition, local infection, malignancy, open wound, recent burns, undiagnosed lump, kidney failure, anemia, fever, sepsis, unstable hypertension

Precautions for STM

acute disc herniation, chronic arthritis, contusion, fracture, kidney stones, asthma, cancer, epilepsy, Heart failure, multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis, post MI, pregnancy

How to form a therapeutic relationship

obtain informed consent, communicate clearly, ensure privacy and confidentiality, establish healthy therapeutic boundaries, enhance client adherence