Vibration massage can be performed by a therapist or with an electronic device. In this massage stroke, the body part or muscle is shaken, using light to firm pressure. The shaking can be much more vigorous if an electronic device designed specifically for the purpose is utilized. Vibrational massage can be applied to any part of the body that can receive other massage strokes.
Relaxation
Vibration techniques usually come at the end of a massage session, and are used to further relax the client and stimulate the blood flow once more before the recipient gets off the massage table. The vibration movement both relaxes the underlying muscles and creates a body-wide sense of relaxation.
Pain Relief
The Ohio State University Medical Center recommends using vibration massage as a method of pain relief that doesn’t involve drugs. The vibrational massage helps relieve painful conditions by creating numbness in the afflicted area. Vibration can also help relax muscles surrounding the painful site, which can further reduce the pain. If you can’t apply vibration directly to the painful area, try using the technique above or below the injured area.
Invigoration
Vibration massage is also used to provide the recipient with a sense of invigoration. Vibrational massage when performed at the end of the session leaves clients feeling less groggy when they get off the table. Light vibration can be performed before a sporting event to stimulate the blood flow and leave the athlete feeling a sense of energy.
References
Writer Bio
James Mulcahy is a New York City-based licensed massage therapist with more than 1,500 hours of training in anatomy, myology and pathology. He currently works as a freelance writer and has contributed to Huffington Post, New York Press, British Airway’s High Life, Metromix and many other publications.