History Of Swedish Massage
Modern U.S. massage began to develop in Europe in the 19th century. A Swedish physiologist and gymnastics instructor, named Pehr Henrik Ling, developed and promoted his own system of massage thus being Swedish massage. He primarily classified the massage techniques used by Greek and Romans in ancient times. Ling’s system, which he called Medical Gymnastics, became commonly known as Swedish Massage. In the United States, Pehr Ling is also considered the “father of physical therapy”
What is Swedish Massage Therapy
Currently represents the western “standard” for massage therapy. Also commonly known as “therapeutic massage”, Swedish Massage represents a general massage system.
Swedish massage techniques direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart
Purpose Of Swedish Massage
To increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles, also focuses on increasing circulation and promoting relaxation
Technique Used in Swedish Massage approach classifies 5 types of strokes
- Effleurage – gliding
- Petrissage – kneading
- Friction – rubbing
- Tapotement – pounding
- Vibration – shaking
Benefit Of Swedish Massage
- Relaxing and invigorating
- Improve blood circulation and lymph fluids
- Strengthens the immune system
- Reduce blood pressure
- Rehabilitation after injury
- Relieve muscle tensions
Precautions
- Nausea
- Broken bones
- Contagious diseases
- Open or unhealed sores or wounds
- Varicose Veins
- Recent surgery
- Severe pain
- Kidney disease
- Large hernias
- Jaundice
- High blood pressure or heart problems
- Certain kinds of cancer
- History of phlebitis or thrombosis (may have blood clots)
- Drug treatment with blood thinners (These medications increase the risk of bleeding under the skin)
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