The scapula, commonly known as the shoulder blade, is a large, flat, triangular bone located on the posterior aspect of the thoracic cage. It serves as a vital anchor point for several muscles of the arm and shoulder girdle, including the rotator cuff. The scapula articulates with the humerus to form the glenohumeral joint and with the clavicle to form the acromioclavicular joint, facilitating a wide range of upper limb movement.
Gliding
Gliding is a versatile term in the context of bodywork. In massage therapy, it refers to effleurage, a stroke characterized by smooth, continuous movement across the skin. In kinesiology, gliding refers to a specific type of synovial joint movement where flat or nearly flat bone surfaces slide past one another without significant rotation or angular change, such as those found between the carpal bones of the wrist.
Compression
Compression is a massage technique that involves applying firm, direct pressure into the soft tissue using the palms, thumbs, or elbows. Unlike gliding strokes, compression is applied perpendicular to the tissue to spread muscle fibers, increase local blood flow, and stimulate the nervous system. It is often used over clothing or as a preparatory technique in sports massage to enhance muscle readiness.
Kneading
Kneading, also known as petrissage, is a massage movement where the therapist rhythmically lifts, squeezes, and rolls the muscle tissue. This technique is highly effective for increasing the pliability of the fascia, improving venous return, and flushing metabolic waste from the muscles. Kneading helps to relieve deep-seated tension and improves the overall texture and health of the soft tissues.
Tapotement
Tapotement is a category of Swedish massage that includes rhythmic percussion strokes such as tapping, cupping, hacking, and slapping. These movements are performed with relaxed hands and are designed to stimulate the nerve endings, increase blood flow to the skin and muscles, and tone the soft tissues. Tapotement is frequently used at the end of a session or during sports massage to invigorate the client.
Petrissage
Petrissage is a fundamental massage technique characterized by the rhythmic lifting, squeezing, and rolling of the skin and underlying muscles. This deep tissue kneading is designed to increase blood circulation, promote lymphatic drainage, and release chronic muscle tension by physically breaking down adhesions in the fascia.
Effleurage
Effleurage consists of a series of long, gliding, and sweeping strokes used at the beginning and end of a massage session. These strokes are applied with varying pressure using the palms, fingers, or forearms to warm up the soft tissues, apply lubricant, and soothe the nervous system while improving venous and lymphatic return.
Triceps
The triceps brachii is a large, three-headed muscle located on the posterior aspect of the upper arm. Its primary anatomical function is the extension of the elbow joint, straightening the arm. In massage therapy, the triceps are often addressed to relieve tension caused by repetitive reaching or pushing movements.