Core Components of Swedish Massage Technique

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to Swedish massage techniques as discussed in lecture notes.

Centripetal Direction

Movement towards the heart for relaxation and edema.

Cros-fibre Technique

A massage method for treating scar tissue or restrictions.

Pressure in Massage

Light to moderate pressure is used for relaxation, while deep pressure reaches adhesions or deeper muscle layers.

Rhythm & Rate

Even and slow rhythm is used for sedation; brisk and erratic rhythm is used for stimulation.

Duration of Techniques

Duration is dependent on area size and tissue condition, longer for edema and shorter for acute pain.

Contact Surface in Massage

Different parts of the arm are used, such as palms for general work, thumbs, and elbows for deeper work.

Stroking Method

The lightest touch using palm or fingers; soothes the nervous system and reduces pain perception.

Effleurage Technique

Long, sweeping strokes towards the heart, used to warm up tissue and enhance venous/lymph return.

Petrissage Technique

Rhythmic compression to loosen adhesions and increase local circulation; involves various sub-types.

Vibrations Method

Fine or coarse oscillations that can be static or running, used to soothe or stimulate tissues.

Tapotement Technique

Rhythmic tapping or striking used to loosen respiratory mucus and stimulate the sympathetic nervous system.

Relaxation Technique Style

Slow, predictable, and rhythmic strokes that decrease sympathetic firing, providing a sedative effect.

Stimulation Technique Style

Brisk, erratic, and unpredictable strokes that increase sympathetic firing, providing energizing effects.

Contraindications in Massage

Must avoid strokes over open sores, acute injuries, infections and apply caution with severely atrophied muscles.

Types of Lubricants Used

Oils (long-lasting but can stain), lotions/gels (less staining but require more frequent application).

Palpation Skills

The ability to feel and assess tissue health, developed through proficiency in massage techniques.