Superficial Reflex Techniques Flashcards
define superficial
Pertaining to or situated near the surface
define reflex
an involuntary reaction in response to a stimulus applied to the periphery and transmitted to the nervous centres in the brain or spinal cord
what are reflex effects of massage?
are mediated by nervous system
peripheral receptors send impulses to centres in the brain or spinal cord which cause local or systemic response
what are mechanical effect of massage
compressing
stretching
shearing
bending
twisting
what are superficial reflex techniques
engage the skin and affect level of arousal, autonomic balance or perception of pain
what are examples of superficial reflex techniques?
static contact
superficial stroking
fine vibration
what is static contact?
motionless contact of therapists hands with clients body, minimal force
what are the outcomes and uses of static contact?
increase rapport
decrease anxiety
improves relaxation
analgesia
may improve growth of premature infants
contraindication of static contact
areas of inflammation
can trigger emotional response
must be cautious with frail high risk clients
how to perform static touch
use relaxed upright posture and fully relaxed hands
breathe using diaphragm
encourage breathing to client
for relaxation response apply the contact on occiput, sacrum, face hands or feet
what is superficial stroking?
gliding over the clients skin with minimal deformation of subcutaneous tissues
usually applied unidirectionally over large areas
outcomes of superficial stroking
reduces pain
improves mood and reduces anxiety
changes levels of arousal
may alter level of neuromuscular tone
contraindications of superficial stroking
areas of inflammation
clients in pain
sensitive to touch
recent myocardial infractions
with bypass surgery wait 48 hours
ticklish
how to perform sedative stroking
relaxed contact with the entire palm
slow stable rate
caudal direction
how to perform stimulating stroking
fingertip contact
fast irregular rate
multidirectional strokes
