Massage is the oldest manual intervention technique there is: just think about what is the first thing we do when we take a shot somewhere.
The classic massage, in particular, falls into the vast category of physical therapy techniques now codified and is also commonly known by the name of Swedish massage.
This denomination comes from the name of its creator, the Swedish physician and physiotherapist Pehr Henrik Ling (1776-1839) who was the first to systematize massage techniques within a method, defining indications, contraindications and manual skills.
Starting from Ling’s methods, spread throughout Europe by his students, the German orthopaedist Albert Hoffa and the Dutch doctor Johan Georg Mezger, developed the massage and manipulation techniques still used today.
The classic massage, unlike other manipulation techniques of oriental origin that contemplate concepts such as vital energy (Qi) and energy meridians, is based on the knowledge of Western medicine relating to anatomy and physiology.
The main manoeuvres and techniques of classic massage
The movements implemented by the massage techniques are carried out through precise sequential manoeuvres, concentrated in the direction of the muscle fibres, with attention to the sense of venous circulation.
The main techniques of classic massage are:
- the touch
- the clutch
- kneading
- percussion _
- the vibration.
Each of these manoeuvres has well-defined characteristics, aimed at obtaining a precise physiological effect on the organism.
Benefits of classic massage
Massage is mainly used as a preventive measure or as a remedy against pathologies or dysfunctions of the musculoskeletal system. The classic massage works by relaxing or toning the muscles , warming them up before doing a sport or relaxing it in the next phase.
Reduces recovery times after intense workouts or injuries, treats back pain and stiff neck, headache and fatigue. It is useful in case of tears, strains, witch blows and many other pains. It improves circulation, aids in the drainage of body fluids, and even the intestines benefit from a massage.
The classic massage pursues the direct approach, since it aims directly at the area of action, even if, in reality, its beneficial effects extend beyond the treated area, restoring the patient’s overall psychophysical balance.
Effectiveness of classic massage
Several studies have been conducted in order to evaluate the real effectiveness of the classic massage in the clinical setting. Some of these have given positive results and confirmed some of the benefits attributed to this technique.
The real effectiveness of the massage also depends on some essential conditions:
- the technical preparation of the massage therapist
- the conditions under which the massage is performed
- the position of the patient and the therapist
- the type of pathology
- the duration of the treatment cycle and of the single treatment
Contraindications of classic massage
Usually, the classic massage has no contraindications. However, it should be considered that in some situations, for example in the case of injuries and diseases such as fever, inflammation, heart disease and infectious diseases, it should be avoided.
There are also areas that are forbidden to massage, as their treatment could be annoying or harmful: all the bony saliences and points of the outcrop of vascular, nervous and lymphatic organs, as well as of course the sexual organs.
Characteristics of a good massager
The massage therapist must necessarily possess optimal psycho-physical qualities and acquire, through training and practice, good dexterity and good coordination, to best dose strength.
A good mental and moral balance is also important, as a sort of intimacy is often created between patient and therapist. So, it is essential to have a lot of discretion and respect to allow the patient to feel at ease as much as possible.
Curiosity
As anticipated, the classic massage is also known as ” Swedish massage ” mainly in South Africa and English-speaking countries. Strange but true, in most countries, it is simply known as ” classic massage “. Other names with which this massage technique is indicated are: ” standard traditional massage “, ” western classic massage ” or ” western basic massage “.
Traditional standard massage is currently the most popular form of manual therapy in Africa. It is performed by masseurs or therapists with specific training. It is also one of the first massage techniques that are taught to those who want to become professional masseurs, as its manoeuvres are then found in many other massage techniques.