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            Last time we talked was mainly on the masseuse. Today the focus will be on the different techniques used in massage therapy. Each one of the following has its special place in massage therapy and of course in your needs.

            1. Effleurage

            2. Petrissage

            3. Friction

            4. Tapotement

            5. Vibration     

            Effleurage is the first and the last stroke you should experience time to time it maybe the only stroke your therapist chooses to use.  It is a nice, gentle and soothing stroke which can be made to include a mild stretch of your muscles. But generally, Effleurage is used for a warm-up stroke, in between strokes, and a relaxing stroke to the end of your massage.

            Petrissage is used to get waste product and blood flowing in and out of your muscles. Petrissage should be used after Effleurage because it is more aggressive. Petrissage should only be preformed for a short time span followed by another round of Effleurage.

            Friction is a more specific stroke for a localized pain, whether the pain is from old scar tissue, or around bony joint prominences. Friction is used in a small area by fingers or an elbow in little circles. The amount of pressure will be determined by the patient’s toleration of the pain level. Again it should only be preformed after warming up the specific area and always with a cooling down Effleurage.

            Tapotement is a unique stroke but when used correctly can stimulate the body into an awakened state. As with an athlete, Tapotement maybe used to increase excitement before a physical activity.

            Vibration in one part is very delicate, soothing, specific treatment mainly on nerves. This treatment should be done by a therapist that has taken the time to be an expert in the treatment. The other part is a light shaking of a muscle or a whole limb as an attempt to relax the area.

            These are the different strokes that could be used by your therapist as directed by you to get the affect you and only you are looking for. You must communicate with your therapist to get the exact treatment you want for your health care.