Massage Techniques and Modalities Flashcards

In Swedish massage, which technique is best suited for warming up superficial tissue and increasing local circulation before deeper work?

Answer: Effleurage

Effleurage warms superficial tissues and increases circulation, preparing the area for deeper massage techniques.

Which massage modality uses application of pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, and ears believed to correspond to body organs?

Answer: Reflexology

Reflexology is based on the theory that specific zones on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to organs and body systems.

During sports massage, pre-event massage should be performed to:

Answer: Stimulate tissues and prepare muscles for activity

Pre-event sports massage is stimulating in nature, using brisk techniques to warm up muscles and prepare the athlete for competition.

Lymphatic drainage massage uses which characteristic pressure compared to Swedish massage?

Answer: Very light pressure just enough to move skin

Manual lymphatic drainage uses very light pressure—approximately 30–40 mmHg—sufficient only to move skin and stimulate lymphatic vessels without compressing them.

In Thai massage, the therapist primarily uses which body parts to apply pressure?

Answer: Thumbs, palms, feet, elbows, and knees

Thai massage uses a wide range of body parts including thumbs, palms, elbows, knees, and feet to apply pressure along energy lines.

The term 'rolfing' refers to a form of bodywork that primarily addresses:

Answer: Structural integration through deep fascial manipulation

Rolfing, developed by Ida Rolf, is a system of structural integration that works with deep fascia to realign the body in relation to gravity.

Which contraindication is MOST relevant when considering friction techniques over scar tissue?

Answer: Scar tissue less than 6–8 weeks old

Friction over scar tissue is contraindicated when the scar is immature (less than 6–8 weeks old) as the tissue is still in the remodeling phase and could be damaged.