Massage

Encyclopedia of Medicine, Apr 06, 2001 by Jeffrey Peter Larson

In the massage technique termed tapotement, a portion of the body is tapped in a rhythmic manner with the fingers or sides of the hands, using short, rapid repetitive movements. This method can be performed by several techniques including cupping with the hands to create a dull hollow sound, or hacking, using the little finger side of the hand to strike the surface of the skin and rhythmically tapping with the finger tips.

Vibration produces a quivering or trembling in the muscle and soft tissue. It is used primarily to soothe and promote relaxation. Vibration may be produced either manually or with the aid of a electrical vibrator machine.

The client will undress and lie, totally draped, on a massage table. Only the area being massaged will be undraped. Since the client may have to be helped to relax prior to the massage, coaching the subject to feel at ease becomes an important aspect of the preparation. Then, in many instances, heat or ice may be applied prior to the massage. Heat is helpful to enhance relaxation and circulation. Cold, in the form of ice, can be helpful for pain reduction if the area is slightly tender.

During the final portion of the massage, light stroking methods are used to help relax tissues that may have been previously stimulated from more aggressive kneading techniques. The individual is often shown stretching exercises he may use to help continue the benefits the massage has produced in muscle flexibility and pain reduction.

Massage can have adverse effects if not used properly, or if used over inappropriate areas. Massage will also have a negative effect if applied over an area that is infected. Massage over a recent injury may increase the inflammation and possibly cause additional soft tissue injury.

If massage is applied properly and under the correct conditions, muscle relaxation occurs along with increased circulation resulting in the enhancement of the healing process for the individual.

If an individual has poor circulation, abnormal results are possible, such as a decrease or unwanted fluctuation in blood supply to critical areas of the body. As noted, massage can produce abnormal blood flow in individuals with high blood pressure or a history of heart trouble. Injury to bone can occur if massage is performed too soon over a bone fracture, or over an area of advanced osteoporosis.

• Books
• Hertling, Darlene, and Randolph M. Kessler. Management of Common Musculoskeletal Disorders: Physical Therapy Principles and Methods. Philadelphia, PA: J.B. Lippincott Company, 1990. Periodicals
• Larson, Jeffrey P. "Massage as a Modality in Trauma and Sports Medicine." Trauma 35(Dec. 1993): 81-94. Organizations
• American Massage Therapy Association. 820 Davis Street, Suite 100, Evanston, Illinois 60201-4444.