Swedish massage techniques are
different from other massage
techniques in that they are quite
specific in the order in which the
massage is done.
These techniques apply deeper
pressure than other kind of
massages and they are also known
to increase oxygenation of blood
and release metabolic waste such
as lactic and uric acids from the
tissues of the muscles.
This can be particularly important
for athletes who find that exercise
causes build-up of lactic acids in
the muscles, which the massage
can dislodge and replace with
fresh oxygenated blood.
Swedish massage techniques can
help not only relieve physical
stress but also emotional stress and
can have other medical and
therapeutic uses.
Swedish massage is known to help
with reducing joint pain and
stiffness, and has also been known
to help those with osteoarthritis.
Those who undergo this kind of
massage also report to enjoying
enhanced flexibility. These
particular massage techniques are
also thought to help improve blood
circulation.
Swedish massage is also known as
‘Classic Massage’ in certain areas of
the world.
The 5 main Swedish massage
techniques as they were developed
by Swedish doctor Per Henrik
Ling, a physical therapist,
developer and teacher of medical-
gymnastics are
1. Effleurage
These are the sliding or gliding
Swedish massage techniques that
cover different areas of the body.
They are long sweeping strokes
that alternate between firm and
light pressure and with can be
performed using the palm of the
hand or the fingertips.
The knots and tension in the
muscles tend to get broken with
this massage technique.
2. Petrissage
This is the technique of kneading
the muscles of the body to attain
deeper massage penetration.
The thumbs and the knuckles of
the fingers are used to knead the
muscles of the body and to squeeze
them to prepare them for the other
Swedish massage techniques that
follow.
3. Tapotement or Rhythmic
Tapping
This technique of Swedish massage,
as the name suggests consists of
rhythmic tapping that uses the fists
of the cupped hands.
This helps to loosen and relax the
muscles being manipulated and
also helps to energize them. The
sides of the hands are used in this
massage technique.
4. Friction
This move seeks to create heat to
bring about relaxation of the
muscles. The palms of the hand are
rubbed together vigorously with
each other, or they are rubbed
onto the skin of the person being
massaged in order to produce heat
by friction.
This technique can be used as a
warm up for the muscles of the
body to be treated for deeper
massage.
5. Vibration or Shaking
This is the one among Swedish
massage techniques that helps to
loosen up the muscles by using a
back and forth action of the
fingertips or the heel of the hand
over the skin.
The muscles of the body are
literally shaken up to loosen and
relax the muscles. The sides of the
hand, and any part of the hand
such as the tips or heel can be used
by the masseuse to shake up the
muscles of the person.
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