The connective tissue massage is also called subcutaneous reflex therapy (SRT) and is one of the reflex zone massages. By applying manual stimuli to the skin, the subcutaneous connective tissue is also reached. The subcutaneous connective tissue is divided into skin segments, which have an influence on certain muscles and organs through the transmission of stimuli.
The connective tissue massage therefore not only has a local effect, but also influences internal organs and the musculoskeletal system. Skin and muscle tensions are balanced, movement restrictions and sensitivity disorders can be eliminated. In addition, the connective tissue massage relieves pain, stimulates the metabolism and promotes blood circulation.
The connective tissue massage stimulates the vegetative nervous system, which can lead to increased sweat production, a slight increase in blood pressure and a higher breathing rate. This reaction is normal during the treatment. The technique is uncomfortable for the patient himself, as the connective tissue massage causes a cutting sensation on the skin.
The treatment should cause a reddening of the skin and may lead to wheals. This external effect is desired and is not permanent. After a certain period of regeneration, the reddening of the skin fades away again and any wheals that may have formed will disappear.
Trained physiotherapists and masseurs may use the connective tissue massage. No further training is required, as the connective tissue massage is included in the training. The connective tissue massage is therefore part of the basic training of every physiotherapist and masseur.
The connective tissue massage is used for many diseases and complaints. Very often connective tissue massage is prescribed for functional disorders of the organs and the locomotor system, especially for arthrosis. Connective tissue massage is also helpful for vascular diseases and circulatory disorders, such as peripheral arterial occlusive disease, chronic venous insufficiency or coronary heart disease. Furthermore, menstrual problems, rheumatism, degenerative nervous diseases and respiratory diseases such as bronchial asthma can be improved by the connective tissue massage. With disturbances of the vegetative nervous system, phantom pain, scars, angina pectoris and illnesses, with which emergence and development are not well-known, as for example migraine can be likewise obtained successes with the help of the connective tissue mass.