Contrary to popular belief, Swedish Massage was not created by anyone from Sweden. The History of Swedish massage by Robert Calvert describes where Swedish massage came from. Per Ling a Swedish Physiologist and gymnastics instructor created something known as the Swedish Movements or Swedish Movement Cure (link to Massage Today Article: November, 2010, Vol. 10, […]
Massage Theory
Swedish Massage Contraindications/Endangerments by System
Nerves location Notes Occipital Foramen Magnum Base of skull superior to 1st cervical vertebra greater occipital nerve, suboccipital nerve, cranial nerves II (optic) III (oculomotor) IV trochlear Do not work the occipital area during passive extension.Static pressure ok in lengthened position Trigeminal Nerve (V Cranial) TMJ pressure on nerve may cause Trigeminal neuralgia or tic de […]
Palpation Skills for Massage Therapists
ELAP recommendations: Subject: Palpation and Movement Topic: Orientation to Palpation and Movement Learning Outcomes Conditions: Having completed 4 hours of instruction on an orientation to palpation and movement, the learner is expected to: Demonstrate knowledge of the key terms and concepts related to the development of palpation skills and the basics of human movement on […]
Learning to Touch for massage therapists
Learning to touch for massage therapists is usually one of the most basic level classes in massage school. How you touch others and the quality of your touch along with your own history of touch will influence your success as a massage therapist. Being a massage therapist is much more than just doing a massage. […]
Swedish Massage Strokes
Stroke Purpose/Uses Mechanical effect Reflexive effect Contraindications LIGHT EFFLEURAGE Gliding, Fanning, Tree branching, shingling etc. Transitioning Spreading oil Evaluating tissue Relaxes muscles (parasympathetic nervous system) Relieves pain (Gate control theory, endorphins) Increases arterial and capillary circulation Increases vasodilation (slowing heart rate and blood pressure) Hyperesthesia Marked or pitted edema Gross swelling Open wounds distal to […]