SWEDISH MASSAGE

Today, massage continues to be used in therapeutic form occupying a viable role in more than half of all hospitals that use it to ease pain, increase mobility and flexibility, and speed healing. But the power of touch can not be denied either.
The human-to-human contact required by massage has enormous healing powers, promoting relaxation and an overall sense of well-being. Subsequently, massage is used often in critical care situations and in the care for infants in a hospital setting.

Purpose of Swedish Massage?

The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles .

Swedish massage shortens recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes. It increases circulation without increasing heart load. It stretches the ligaments and tendons keeping them supple and pliable. Swedish massage also stimulates the skin and nervous system and soothes the nerves themselves at the same time. It reduces stress , both emotional and physical, and is suggested in a regular program for stress management.

It also has many specific medical uses.

Swedish Massage Techniques

Swedish massage techniques include: long strokes, kneading, friction, tapping, percussion, vibration, effleurage, and shaking motions. The usual sequence of techniques are:

• Effleurage: Gliding strokes with the palms, thumbs and/or fingertips
• Petrissage: Kneading movements with the hands, thumbs and/or fingers
• Friction: Circular pressures with the palms of hands, thumbs and/or fingers

• Vibration: Oscillatory movements that shake or vibrate the body
• Percussion: Brisk hacking or tapping
• Passive and active movements: Bending and stretching