Therapeutic Exercises

Massage
Definition:
Massage is an art and scientific mode of treatment by using systemic manipulation of
soft tissue.
Massage is a therapeutic manipulation of the soft tissues of the body with
the goal of achieving normalization of those tissues. Massage can have
mechanical, neurological, psychological, and reflexive effects. Massage can
be used to reduce pain or adhesions, promote sedation, mobilize fluids, increase
muscular relaxation, and facilitate vasodilation.
Preparation of the practitioner
1- Awareness
2- freedom of movement
3- Skills of hand movement
4- Relaxation of hand
5- Co-ordination of body motion
Preparation of the patient
1- relaxed and comfortable position
2- undress the part to be treated
3- using pillows for each position

Materials used in massage

1- Powder
2- Oils
3- Water-based lubricants( light cream)
4- Soap and water
Therapeutic Effects

– Mechanical Responses
– Occur as a direct result of pressures and movements (softening of
adhesive tissue).
• Encourages venous flow and mild stretching of superficial
tissue
• Loosen the adherent mucous from the bronchial tree.
• Encourage strength and alignment of repair fibers of soft tissue.
• Avoid shortening of scar tissue through stretching way
– Physiological Responses:
On circulatory system:

• Improving circulation through increasing venous return

• Removal of metabolites, overcoming venostasis
• Increased capillary dilation.
• Stimulation of cell metabolism.
• Decreasing toxins and increase lymphatic and venous
circulation.

On respiratory system:

• Loosen the adherent mucous from the bronchial tree.

• Improving respiration.
On CNS:

• Reflex effect - response to nerve impulses initiated through

superficial contact.
• Relieve pain.

On musculoskeletal system:
• Improve muscle length.
• Prevent spasm
• Relaxation can be induced by slow superficial stroking of skin
• Stimulation achieved by quick brisk strokes, causing
contraction of muscle.
• Psychological Responses
• creating a bond of confidence between the practitioner and the
patient.
• Reducing depression, anxiety and anger.
Therapeutic goals and indications for massage therapy
Uses: can include, but are not limited to,
(1) mobilization of inter-tissue fluids.
(2) reduction or modification of edema.
(3) increase of local blood flow.
(4) decrease of muscle soreness and stiffness.
(5) moderation of pain.
(6) facilitation of relaxation.
(7) prevention or elimination of adhesions.
(8) Massage may be used to alter pathophysiology of a primary condition (eg,
contracture).
(9) Improvement of lymphatic flow.
Indications for massage therapy
1- low back pain.
2- Anxiety, and depression.
3- Cervical pain.
4- Circulatory problems.
5- Respiratory problems.
6- Upper and Lower limb pain.
Contraindications for massage
1- Skin disorders.
2- Skin infections.
3- Malignant tumours.
4- Recent and unhealed scars.
5- Open wound.
6- Recent fracture