Massage is an ancient form of therapy that is still used today and is very popular with many patients. It is used to mechanically affect the skin, connective tissue and muscles through stretching, pulling and pressure stimuli. The effect of massage extends from the treated part of the body over the entire organism and also includes the psyche.There are the following types of massage:
Classical massage
This form of massage stimulates blood circulation and relaxes the body, thus leading to pain relief, especially in cases of muscular tension.Components of classical massage are:
- Effleuragen – strokes
- Frictions – Frictions
- Petrissages – kneading and flexing
- Vibrations – shocks and shaking
- Tapotements – tapping
Reflexology
On the skin there are areas – called reflex zones – which are connected by nerves with areas inside the body. In this way, it is possible to positively influence internal organs through the reflex zones of the skin.
This form of massage is also frequently used for circulatory disorders.
Underwater pressure jet massage
This type of massage is performed in a tub bath. Here, both the water itself and the massage water pressure jet have a relaxing effect, leading to pain relief and promotion of blood circulation and well-being.
Manual lymphatic drainage
When lymph backs up, edema (water retention in the tissues) occurs. The affected body part swells and causes pain, such as after surgery or after removal of lymph nodes.Manual lymphatic drainage leads to decongestion of the lymph and swelling of the body part, which at the same time relieves pain. Likewise, joint effusions and rheumatic diseases are treated supportively by manual lymphatic drainage.
Benefits
A massage causes stimuli on almost all body components such as skin, muscles, nerves and internal organs and leads to pain relief via relaxation, which also increases the general well-being at the same time.
