Types of Swedish Massage

The term "Swedish massage" refers to a collection of specific massage techniques pioneered by Swedish doctor Per Henrik Ling in the 1700s. In an article published in the April/May 1993 edition of "The British Journal of Occupational Therapy," G. Westland reports that Swedish massage releases muscular tension, improves blood oxygen flow and eliminates toxins from muscles by using of firm but relaxing pressure -- always in the direction of the heart -- on the target area.

Effleurage

• Administered in preparation for deeper, more intense muscle work, effleurage -- a series of long, gliding strokes applied all over the body with light pressure -- uses the palms, thumbs and fingertips. This method gives the skin a gentle "working over" and promotes relaxation. In "Massage and Myotherapy," Brian Tritton explains that effleurage connects the network of body parts, releasing tension from the entire body.

Friction

• Friction involves circular or rubbing movements on the client with medium pressure applied by the palms, thumbs and fingers. The therapist may also rub his hands together and set them directly onto the client. Its purpose is to stimulate heat in the target area, so the underlying muscles relax before a more penetrating massage.

Petrissage

• In petrissage -- the application of firm kneading and squeezing movements that penetrate the muscles more deeply -- the therapist uses her hands, thumbs and fingers. This method relaxes the deeper muscles and underlying tissues. Westland states that it also improves circulation and hastens the elimination of toxins, such as uric and lactic acid.

Tapottement

• Also known as percussion or hacking, tapottement uses rhythmic chopping strokes -- normally with the sides of the hands, although sometimes administered with clenched fists -- to invigorate the target area and increase blood flow.

Traction

• During traction, the therapist pulls at the legs, arms and head of the client, stretching the muscles, ligaments and tendons. Done toward the end of the massage, as the muscles must be adequately relaxed, traction makes the client feel loose, limber and more flexible, Tritton states.

Vibration

• Vibration employs shaking and oscillating movements to promote blood flow and further loosen up the target area. This method uses the heel of the hand, the side of the hand and even the fingertips in a back-and-forth motion across the skin.