Therapeutic Positioning and Back Massage
Therapeutic Positioning and Back Massage
Therapeutic Positioning and Back Massage
Orthopneic Position, the client sits either in bed or on the side of the
bed with an overbed table across lap.
Effleurage (Gliding)
Effleurage is the first and most widely used stroke. It is performed with
long, gliding strokes towards the heart without trying to move deeper
tissues. Effleurage can be applied with broad surfaces, such as the
palms, the pads of the fingertips, or the pads of the thumbs. Each
stroke is used to evaluate the client (e.g. condition, tissue tension,
texture, temperature, pain tolerance). Effleurage is best applied with
relaxed hands that conform and cover as much on the body surface as
possible. Pressure should be uniform and the stroke flowing rhythmic.
Effleurage is a great way to begin and end each segment of the body
being worked. Types of effleurage strokes include nerve strokes and
feathering (a very light stroke), both of which can maintain the client’s
relaxed state.
Petrissage (Kneading)
Friction
Tapotement (Percussion)
Vibration
Vibration is a technique characterized by highly rhythmic shaking and
trembling manipulation of surface tissues of the body. It is applied with
rigid hands, and the movement comes primarily from the forearms or
wrists.