MASSAGE RELATED DEFINITIONS

Friction---deep, movements in a circular pattern which causes the soft tissue layers to rub against each other, this causes an increase in

blood flow to the area being massaged. This is the deepest massage for the Swedish technique.

Deep Tissue---this technique focuses on deeper levels of muscle tissue. Slow strokes and deep finger pressure on concentrated areas

release chronic tension by following the muscle or by crossing the grain of the muscles, tendons, and fascia.

Effleurage---a smooth gliding stroke used to relax the soft tissue applied by both hands, usually used in the Swedish style.

Petrissage---also known as kneading. Done right after effleurage massage during the Swedish massage. This is squeezing, rolling,

and kneading of the muscles.

Trigger point therapy---finger pressure to the “trigger points” (painful irritated areas in the muscles) to give a break in the cycle of spasms.

and pain.

Swedish massage---long strokes with kneading and friction used with passive and active movement of the joints. This is done on the layers

of the muscles.

Sports massage---this massage is specifically targeted towards the sports related muscles. Sometimes improving the athletic ability.

Myofascial---long strokes used to release muscular tension in the fascia which aids in trying to rebalance the body.

Tapotement---short taps on the body with fingers, cupped hands or the edge of the hand in an alternating pattern.

Reflexology---Not practiced at this clinic but for informational purposes only: this is done through the hands and feet pressure points,

designed to “reflex” to all areas of the body.

Cranio-Sacral---a technique used to find and correct cerebral and spinal blockage or imbalance that may cause dysfunction to the sensory,

motor or intellectual skills.