Massage Therapy Techniques And Terminology. Quiz

Answer: All of these

A specially designed massage chair has been made so that massages can be done in the seated position. A normal chair can also be used. This type of massage is seen in office buildings, where massage is done during lunch times etc. An elderly person, who cannot get on or off a clinic table, will often have this type of massage. The focus of the massage is usually on the upper body.

Answer: Equine massage

Equine massage can be used over the entire horses body. It increases circulation, increases joint range of movement and decreases tightness in muscles. If the horse is injury free and not stressed, it performs better. Elbows, forearms and hands are used in much the same way as humans are massaged.

Answer: Reflexology

Reflexology is an alternative medical treatment, which is associated with the soles of the feet. It works on the theory, that if you put direct pressure on a certain area of the foot, then another area on the body will be affected. Blood supply and nerves are stimulated so that health improves in areas that are not even being touched.

Answer: True

Effleurage (gliding stroke) is done with a light stroking movement. The stroke usually follows the fiber direction of the muscles. If a person is ticklish, then compression strokes are used. This technique lifts and presses the tissue being worked on.

Answer: All of these

Deep massage and prolonged pressure over these sites, can damage the vessels and nerves that are close to the surface. These sites are not well protected by muscle or connective tissue.

Answer: True

As the blood from the arteries enter the tissue being worked on, fresh nutrients and oxygen enter the massage site. These help to repair damaged tissue. Waste products such as toxins and carbon dioxide then go back to the heart via the veins. The massage also helps stretch tissue such as tendons and scar tissue.

This in turn helps the person achieve better range of movement, so that they can move more freely. The light touch of the massage relaxes muscles and often pain subsides. If pain disappears then the person is usually physically and mentally relaxed.

Answer: Swedish massage

Swedish massage uses passive and active exercises for muscles and joints. Strokes used are: effleurage(gliding), petrissage(kneading), friction(transverse, circular), tapotement/percussion(hacking, cupping, beating, pounding, slapping, tapping), shaking, rocking, compression and vibration.

The therapist can move a part of the body passively, to its full range of movement. The client can be instructed to move the body part themself.

Answer: False

Thai massage is usually done on the floor and not on a massage table. It consists of passive stretching, where the therapist pushes and stretches parts of the body. To improve circulation, gentle pressure is placed along the known energy lines of the body. Thai massage is believed to encourage inner health and muscle flexibility.

Answer: Refer client to a doctor first

It is not recommended to massage over inflammed tissue and bruising, until a doctor has seen the client. This is necessary to rule out any serious underlying problems. Effleurage, gentle frictioning and lymphatic drainage can be done, once the doctor gives his permission.

Answer: After an athletic event

Massage before a sporting event should be stimulating and quick. Muscle shaking and light general strokes are techniques that are used. During competition breaks, short, light and relaxing strokes are used to get the muscles ready for more activity. After the event, massage encourages relaxation and helps decrease swelling. Techniques used are: gliding strokes,gentle kneading of muscles, circular and transverse frictioning of tendons and joints.