How to Use Compression for a Swedish Massage

Compression is one of the six basic strokes in giving a Swedish massage, the most prevalent kind practiced today. It is arguably the most important element, as it is a basic massage stroke that releases so much tension in the body. Mastering compression in a Swedish massage will open the door for full mastery of giving a deeply satisfying massage.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Massage table
• Massage oil

1. Start the first compression stroke by using the palm or "heel" of your hand. Vary this by also using the fingers or thumbs. It is often found that using the heel of your hand gives you more power, pressure and control.

2. Pour a small amount of massage oil on the area of the skin. It will reduce friction and maximize comfort. Scented oil can help a patient relax. Ask your client for their preference. Making sure someone is relaxed will help the results of your massage a great deal.

3. Use strokes that are directed towards the heart. You want to squeeze the tissue firmly together, using carefully applied pressure. With the compression stroke, you are increasing blood flow by staggering it for a bit. You can also increase trigger points in muscles using this motion.

4. Move toward another muscle group when the one you are focused on is fully relaxed. Start slowly, as the last thing you want in a tensed muscle that is resisting you. Starting slowly will make sure that you are able to reach deeply and apply your compression stroke.

5. Combine compression and vibration as you go, especially when a muscle will not release.

6. Avoid over-working a muscle. You want to find a balance between working a muscle too much and stopping a massage short of full relaxation. Compression is a powerful tool and it should be handled carefully in a Swedish massage. Make sure your patient is responding well to the strokes through your own observation or a brief and calmly asked question.

7. Finish with an all-around relaxing massage stroke. When you are done with the full massage which primarily features compression, the tissues should be relaxed. Pain should be relieved. Circulation should be increased. A patient should feel great.

Tips & Warnings

• Learn to observe carefully when giving a massage. Not only are you looking for how the massage is physically affecting the body, but you want to make sure that you are not hurting the receiver of your massage.
• Give a massage only once you've learned all the basic principles and techniques.
• Never practice without a license if you are accepting payment for your massage.
• Never get too aggressive in giving a massage. Although you need to apply pressure, it should never really hurt the receiver. The "no pain, no gain" philosophy is not true in massaging.

[hlthychoclitnut]

on 12/28/2008 I've been a MT for 14 years in S Ca. I agree The "no pain, no gain" philosophy is not true in massaging unfortunately alot of Therapists give someone a bad 1st massage and they never want to do it again. Not everyone needs elbows.