Introduction
Standard Massage Techniques
Deep Tissue Massage/Remedial Massage
Sports Massage
Trigger Point Therapy
Active Release Technique (ART)
Myofascial Release
Positional Release (Strain Counterstrain)
Visceral Manipulation
The three main massage techniques
Massage has three main techniques: Effleurage, petrissage, and frictions. I always use these massage techniques on all our patients as part of standard treatment. They help to increase lymphatic and venous flow. To do this, I make sure that the main pressure is aimed towards the heart.
If the purpose of the massage is to stretch muscle fibres, the direction of the massage is not as important. This massage technique uses shorter strokes so there is no risk of pressure being building up.
Effleurage
Effleurage is a massage technique that aims to warm up the tissues, improve blood flow, stimulate the peripheral nerves, relax the muscles, and palpate the tissues. I always perform effleurage at the start of massage to introduce the patient to touch.
Effleurage involves a wide range of stroking movements, usually done using the fingers and the whole palm of the hand. The pressure applied should depend on the purpose of the massage.
Effleurage should be done in a relaxed, rhythmical manner, starting with a light touch. The pressure should gradually increase during the session with slower movements in order to improve the circulation and stretch the tissues. Effleurage is also used as the last technique of a massage with light strokes to help relax the patient at the end of the session.
Petrissage (kneading)
Petrissage is used to mobilise fluids, stretch muscle fibres, and encourage muscle relaxation. Basic movements involve compressing, picking up, and releasing the soft tissues. Alternate movements between compressing and releasing of the tissues help stimulate the circulation, relieving the pain any muscular disorders may cause. Generally, this massage technique is used if the patient wants a deeper effect than effleurage.
Frictions
We use frictions for exploratory purposes. It may be used to separate muscle fibres or to break down recent scar tissue. It may also be used to break down any knots or adhesions that build up in the body of the muscle. When frictions are performed for exploratory purposes, the chiropractor must use the sensory pad of his thumb to palpate any trigger points in the tissue. This allows the chiropractor to discover abnormalities in the tissues.
Frictions must be done very carefully and not for a long time as it may irritate the tissue and cause inflammation.
Introduction
Standard Massage Techniques
Deep Tissue Massage/Remedial Massage
Sports Massage
Trigger Point Therapy
Active Release Technique (ART)
Myofascial Release
Positional Release (Strain Counterstrain)
Visceral Manipulation