Swedish Massage Technique

Swedish massage technique is probably the most commonly practiced massage therapy in the Western hemisphere. Swedish massage consists of six major types of techniques: effleurage, petrissage, friction, vibration, tapotement, and swedish gymnastics.

Petrissage is kneading movements with the hands, thumbs, or fingers. The purpose is to

• Stretch and broaden muscle fibers and stimulate muscle tone
• Break up adhesions
• Increase circulation and waste elimination
• Move interstitial fluid

Friction can be direct pressure, linear, circular, or cross fiber. The important distinction of friction is that the massage therapist does not slide over the skin--the intention is to move over the underlying muscle.

Direct pressure friction is a compression that spreads tissue, creates temporary ischemia, and mobilizes muscle/tendon junction.

Linear or circular friction releases and separates adhered fascia or muscle fibers and broadens and stretches muscle fibers.

Cross fiber friction is applied at right angles to scar/fibrotic tissue to break up adhesions and assist in realigning scar tissue.

Tapotement is percussion movements such as brisk hacking or tapping. The purpose of this Swedish technique is to

• Stimulate tired muscles and the nervous system
• Relax tight muscles
• Enhance muscle tone via contract-relax response
• Increase circulation
• Stimulate skin and glandular activity

Swedish gymnastics are passive and active movements, including bending and stretching, designed to stretch muscles and ligaments, loosen adhesions, and increase range of motion and flexibility.

To learn more, see the Essentials of Swedish Massage Technique DVD.

Swedish Massage Technique Video