Swedish Massage

Swedish massage, also known as classic massage, is the most commonly used method of massage. This type of therapy has been found useful to improve a variety of disorders to help in overall wellness and physical function. It is characterized by the use of lubricants and five different movements applied by the hands: effleurage (stroke), friction, petrissage (kneading), vibration, traction and tapotement (gentle striking). Four of the strokes were in the original system developed in Holland by Johan Georg Mezger in the late 19th century. Over time, the techniques have evolved to include other methods such as rocking, trigger point and deep tissue massage. Sports massage is Swedish massage and physical therapy techniques that are specifically adapted for the needs of particular sports.

You will find on this web site further information on disorders that improve with treatment by this therapy and benefits that are conferred by treatments. Additional links, blogs and a news section are provided for more information, and there is a featured video of the methods used. Further video instructionals on techniques that are commonly used can be found in the videos section.

Some disorders that can improve with massage therapy treatments are listed below. Besides improving these conditions, swedish massage has been shown to increase blood and lymph circulation, improve immune system function, and improve feelings of well-being. http://www.swedishinstitute.edu/community_education/cmed_article_011.htm

1. Osteoarthritis http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/58332.php
2. Stress and Anxiety http://www.swedishinstitute.edu/community_education/cmed_article_011.htm
3. Muscle stiffness http://www.altmd.com/Articles/Swedish-Massage--Encyclopedia-of-Alternative-Medic
4. Range of motion and flexibility http://www.altmd.com/Articles/Swedish-Massage--Encyclopedia-of-Alternative-Medic
5. Musculo-skeletal problems such as sciatica, sporting injuries, tennis elbow, arthritis, TMJ and muscle spasms http://www.balanceholistics.co.uk/swedish_massage.htm http://www.integrative-healthcare.org/mt/archives/2006/05/relieving_tmj_p.html
6. Headaches www.suite101.com/article.cfm/headaches/47806
7. Sleep disturbances http://www.my-massage-therapist.com/2009/02/massage-therapy-relieves-headaches.html
8. Pain reduction http://www.swedishinstitute.edu/community_education/cmed_article_011.htm
9. Depression http://www.swedishinstitute.edu/community_education/cmed_article_011.htm

1. Improves blood and lymph circulation http://www.drew.edu/depts/health.aspx?id=7361
2. Improves flexibility and relieves pain in those suffering from osteoarthritis http://www.amcollege.edu/acupuncture-massage-blog/massage/swedish-massage-for-osteoarthritis/
3. Improves range of motion http://www.jmu.edu/recreation/Programs/Massage/index.html
4. Decreases lactic acid in muscles http://www.jmu.edu/recreation/Programs/Massage/index.html
5. Increased feeling of well-being and relaxation http://www.google.co.cr/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=10&ved=0CC4QFjAJ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hawaii.edu%2Fhivandaids%2FABC%2520of%2520Complementary%2520Medicine%2520%2520%2520%2520Massage%2520Therapies.pdf&ei=eJUrS8j1BofSlAei1-yXBw&usg=AFQjCNEPgLWwg0iyq1Rgay1lVUWc5pQwdQ&sig2=2QSd-dVaaQcJHEvjKyVIWg
6. Reduces blood pressure http://www.jmu.edu/recreation/Programs/Massage/index.html
7. Improving muscle tone, digestion, and skin tone www.uhs.uga.edu/services/massage.html
8. Improves sleep www.cewm.med.ucla.edu/sources/can-massage-cure.pdf
9. Eliminate painful muscle spasms http://www.amcollege.edu/acupuncture-massage-blog/massage/swedish-massage-for-osteoarthritis/
10. Improves circulation of blood and lympth http://www.jmu.edu/recreation/Programs/Massage/index.html http://www.swedishinstitute.edu/community_education/CMED_Article_007.htm
11. Promotes deeper breathing http://www.swedishinstitute.edu/community_education/CMED_Article_007.htm
12. Increase of weight gain and alertness in premature babies http://www.swedishinstitute.edu/community_education/CMED_Article_007.htm