Massage Dictionary Part 2

Question 1

Massage medium

Answer 1

a lubricant that enables the therapist’s hands to move freely and smoothly over the client’s skin. The three most common mediums are: oils, creams and powder.

Question 2

Vibration

Answer 2

a fine, gentle, trembling movement performed with hands or fingers. Vibrations can be used to stimulate soft tissues in the body. Vibration movements can help stimulate nerves, relieve muscular tension and decrease stress.

Question 3

Compression

Answer 3

applies pressure onto larger areas of muscles, which are then held and released. This technique is then repeated.

Question 4

Wringing

Answer 4

performed onto large areas of muscle by lifting up and squeezing the muscle in a forward and backward motion.

Question 5

Trigger Points

Answer 5

is used to treat trigger points and muscular knots formed in soft tissues to decrease pain and relieve muscle tightness. Acute trauma, overuse or repetitive microtrauma can lead to the development of stress on muscle fibres.

Question 6

Hacking

Answer 6

a light and fast movement performed with the side of the hands. The fingers touch the skin surface as the wrists move up and down. The hacking technique is used to revitalise sore and tired muscles.

Question 7

Kneading

Answer 7

a specific massage technique that involves compressing soft tissues. Kneading is a circular technique where tissues are lifted, rolled and squeezed in a compressive action. The pressure is deep and it compresses the underlying muscles.

Question 8

Skin Rolling

Answer 8

releases muscular knots and adhesions so that skin can flow efficiently over the body. Skin rolling is performed using the thumb and fingers to pull skin away from the tissue. It is then rolled forwards in a constant motion to help separate it from being stuck from muscle. Skin rolling can be used around areas of scar tissues to help break it down.

Question 9

Myofascial Release

Answer 9

a soft tissue treatment of skeletal muscle pain and immobility. Myofascial release involves applying gentle pressure into connective tissue and fascia. Fascia is a structure of connective tissues that surround muscles, blood vessels and nerves. In healthy conditions fascia tissue is relaxed and wavy in configuration. The fascial system can provide cushioning support so that movement is increased and without pain. A myofascial release technique helps to detect restrictions and can facilitate the release of fascia.

Question 10

Mobilisations

Answer 10

a bone or vertebrae is moved to relieve painful tension, stiffness, pain and improve range of movement. Joint mobilisations are performed with various pressures and are graded one to five. The pressure used with joint mobilisations is dependent on desired outcomes. Soft tissue mobilisations are a specific treatment that is used to loosen tightness and reduce pain in the body through manual manipulation.