Massage Parameters
Direction, pressure, rate, rhythm, duration and frequency will depend on patient and the anticipated treatment outcome. For example, procedures for relaxation to decrease pain are markedly different than procedures to increase mobility of scar tissue. Specific procedures are described in the 9B.2 Handout, "Positioning and Soft Tissue Mobilization Images
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Direction |
Dependent on the targeted outcome of the treatment Centripetal: toward the heart - in the direction of venous and lymphatic flow; generally associated with strokes which increase/effect circulation Centrifugal: away from the heart - in the direction of arterial flow; non-specific in an anatomical region
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Pressure |
Varies from extremely light to heavy; varies from constant to progressive (light to heavy) Largely dependent on feedback from patient and patient's age, sensory system, and soft tissue status |
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Rate and Rhythm |
Relaxation: slow, gentle and rhythmic; may include overlapping circular motions Stimulating: rapid, clapping |
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Duration and Frequency |
Varies with treatment plan: body region (10-15 min) compared to whole body (45+ min); deeper cross friction techniques are generally of shorter duration due to tissue effects and increased risk for tissue injury; duration depends on the size of treatment area and extent of injury. Integrated with other functional PT interventions as part of total treatment plan (e.g., exercises, therapeutic activities, postural awareness training) with documentation to support incremental benefit in progressing to short and long term goals.
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Classification of Massage Strokes
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Manipulation (Stroke Type) |
Variations |
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Stroking - Effleurage |
Stroking
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Pressure - Petrisage |
Kneading Picking up Wringing Skin rolling |
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Percussion - Tapotement |
Hacking Clapping Beating Pounding |
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Vibration and shaking |
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Deep frictions |
Transverse Circular
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Massage Procedures
Refer to the 9B.2 Handout for General Guidelines