Massage techniques: types and applications

There are various types of massage techniques that can be used to keep our body in a healthy and balanced state. The concept of massage has been in existence since ancient times when it was practiced in great civilizations such as Greece, Rome, Egypt, India and China. Even today, massage is used in a wide range of intensive care, health club, and health clinic and hospital settings. We find the application of massage in conditions like premature birth, some types of cancer, AIDS, osteoarthritis, lumbar back pain, nerve damage, paralysis, heart attack, stroke and so on.

The application of prostate massage technique has been proved effective in treatment of prostate problems. It can be used as a preventative treatment against prostate cancer and to lessen the possibility of prostate enlargement or benign prostate hypertrophy (BPH). Interestingly, prostate massage also happens to be a form of sexual play. Developed in the 18th century by Per Henrik Ling, Swedish massage technique is mainly used to boost the flow of oxygen in blood and release toxins from the muscles. It can also stimulate the skin and nervous system and simultaneously soothe the nerves themselves. Swedish massage is also effective in reducing both physical and mental stress.

Foot massage technique can belong to any of the following types: stroking, ankle rotation, pivoting, kneading and finger walking. Foot massage is something you can give to yourself or someone else. It is undoubtedly one of the most relaxing and enjoyable massage techniques available. Foot reflexology is the ultimate study of foot massage that involves exerting focused pressure on some familiar reflex points in the foot to treat or prevent disease.

There are some web sites that offer free massage techniques to visitors. Such a free massage technique may be among those suitable for use by couples. Couples can learn about deep massage, sensual massage and other common techniques from these sites. As competition among sportspersons is getting more severe by the day, the use of sports massage technique is also becoming more popular. Sports massage, if applied properly, can release muscle tension and restore balance to the musculo-skeletal system. One of the best advantages of sports massage is that it is extremely helpful in prevention of injuries to athletes. Sports massage can be classified into three categories, namely effleurage, petrissage and frictions. In almost each of them, the main pressure is aimed at the heart.

Body massage technique can be applied for body treatment. Although mainly a pampering experience, body massage provides users with various health benefits as well. A light and relaxing body massage can mitigate your tension and boost your spirits. Apart from Swedish massage, Thai massage is a highly popular form of body massage these days. Some other types of body massages are lymphatic drainage, craniosacral therapy, nueromuscular therapy and myofascial release, Vastu Rolfing Structural Integration, reflexology, Shiatsu, and Ayurvedic massage. By applying a facial massage technique, one can slow down the process of ageing and have a younger looking and healthier skin. Facial massage also helps in relieving stress, migraine headache, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and sinus congestion.