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Swedish Massage
Description
A relatively gentle massage with lotion or oils using light and/or medium pressure performed while client is properly draped. Swedish massage is aimed at reaching mainly superficial muscles. Various techniques are used mainly to increase circulation and soothe the body. Some of these techniques are listed below. A full body Swedish requires the client to be laying face up and face down. In some cases it may be modified to allow for a sidelying position.
Recommended For
Potential benefits include gentle breakdown of adhesions within muscles (i.e. due to lactic acid buildup or scar tissue) in muscle belly and attachments, improved posture, increased range of motion, injury prevention, faster recovery time from previous injury, increased blood supply and nutrients and reduced muscle soreness.
Not Recommended For
This massage is aimed at increasing blood circulation. In cases where general inflammation (as opposed to localized inflammation) is present (i.e. fibromyalgia), a Swedish massage would not be recommended. Certain conditions may also indicate only a few, not all of the possible Swedish techniques. For example, tapotement near the head would not be recommended when a headache is present. It is best to obtain your physician’s written consent before seeking treatment for a pre-existing or unknown condition. Also see Contraindications.
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Effleurage | Gliding technique for increasing circulation and lengthening muscle belly |
| Petrissage | Kneading technique for lifting muscle belly and muscle fibers |
| Tapotement | Tapping technique for soothing nerves |
| Rocking | Aimed at increasing circulation in muscle and joint areas |
| Compressions | Aimed at aligning muscle fibers and connective tissues |
| Vibration | Energetic technique for localized and/or radiating circulations |
This list is not meant for instruction and includes just some techniques which may be used as part of a Swedish massage. It is not a comprehensive list.