Gen Med - Massage and Soft Tissue Mobilization

What are the physiological effects of massage and STM

- Reflexive

- Mechanical

STM can trigger a

Autonomic nervous system response

How does STM moderate pain

Via gate control with non-nociceptive input

Stimulation of painful sites causes

Endogenous opiate release

How does STM effect circulation

The stimulus of STM causes reflex dilation of lymphatics/capillaries

STM does not alter general _, but rather causes changes in _

Metabolism; circulation

How does STM affect muscle

- Mechanical stretching of muscular and fascial tissue

- Possible increase in blood flow

- May slow muscle atrophy following injury

- Does not increase strength/tone or decrease fatigue

Mechanical stretching of muscular and fascial tissue leads to

- Increased ROM

- Removal of adhesions

How does STM affect the skin

- Increases skin temperature

- Possible increased blood flow

- Assists with breakdown of adhesions/scar tissue in subcutaneous layers

- Desensitization

As the mechanical effects increase, the _ decreases

Reflexive effects

Psychological effects of STM include

- Improve mood after intense exercise or injury

- Improve patient-clinicial relationship

- Beliefs

- Reduces anxiety

General considerations of STM include

- Good knowledge of A&P

- Working knowledge of pathology

- Stage or recovery

- Thorough understanding of massage principles

- Skillful hands

As a clinician, you should use your _ to cause most of the mechanical stimulus

Body weight

What are the total contraindications of STM (UC FANS)

- Under the influence of drugs/alcohol

- Contagious or infectious disease

- Fever

- Acute injuries or recent operations

- Neuritis

- Skin diseases

What are the local contraindications of STM (VISA CUB UP)

- Varicose veins

- Inflammation (including OA)

- Sunburn

- Abrasions

- Cuts

- Undiagnosed lumps/bumps

- Bruising

- Undiagnosed pain

- Pregnancy

What are the general precautions of STM (NHL R)

- Nails trimmed

- Hands warn, dry, soft

- Lubricant used accordingly

- Remove rings, watches, jewelry

Manual lymphatic drainage targets

Edema secondary to lymphatic dysfunction

Manual lymphatic drainage places an emphasis on decongesting

Proximal segments first rather than working distally

Manual lymphatic drainage requires

Very low pressure