Therapeutic massage Flashcards
1
Q
what are the physiological effects of therapeutic massage?
A
- Improve circulation and lymphatic flow.
- Assist in removal of waste products.
- Sedate or stimulate nerve endings.
- Increase or decrease muscle tone.
- Increase or decrease muscle length.
- Remodel scar tissue
2
Q
Structure of the lymphatic system
A
- Mirrors the vascular system.
- Tiny lymph capillaries form a mesh like structure in the tissue spaces.
- Capillaries unite to form larger lymphatic vessels.
- Larger collecting trunks have smooth muscle present in their walls.
- Drainage of excess tissue fluids which maintains fluid balance via lymph and capillary blood vessels.
- Lymph closely resembles blood plasma and intercellular fluids.
3
Q
Effects of massage on the lymphatic system
A
- Assists lymphatic drainage
- Effleurage performed in unidirectional manner (distal to proximal) towards the nearest lymph nodes.
- Elevating the limb will assist
4
Q
Circulatory effects of massage
A
- Replenishes oxygen and nutrients, removes waste (e.g. inflammatory products and chemical irritants)
- Enhances venous return.
5
Q
Connective tissue effects of massage
A
- Restores mobility.
- Maintains pliability and length.
- Promotes remodelling along the lines of stress.
6
Q
Muscle effects of massage
A
- Reduces muscle soreness (post injury and post exercise).
- Reduces muscle tension and spasm.
7
Q
How does massage reduce pain?
A
- Closing pain gate
- Stimulating release of endorphins (e.g. serotonin, dopamine)
- Increased circulation reducing noxious stimuli
- Increasing positive mood
- Promoting relaxation
8
Q
Massage techniques
A
- Stroking
- Effleurage (repeated circular stroking with palm of hand)
- Petrissage:
- Kneading up
- Picking up
- Wringing
- Friction
9
Q
Contraindications of massage
A
- Massage over an open wound
- Presence of malignant tumours
- Inadequate blood supply
- Acute injuries, haematoma
- Fractures
- Skin conditions – burns, infections
- Suspected DVT
10
Q
Cautions of massage
A
- Fragile skin
- Circulation disorders
- Patients with heart problems- chest and neck must not be massaged and take extra care when massaging thoracic spine
- Osteoporosis
