Body Treatments and Massage Techniques
Body Treatments and Massage Techniques
This domain tests classical massage movements, direction and pressure, draping and consent, body treatment products, and the contraindications that must stop a treatment.
Massage movements
- Effleurage - gliding strokes, superficial or deep, used to open and close a sequence and to link movements.
- Petrissage - kneading, lifting, wringing and rolling of tissue.
- Tapotement - percussion: hacking, cupping, pummelling and clapping.
- Friction - small circular or cross-fibre movements on knots and trigger points.
- Vibration and shaking - fine tremor or gentle shaking to relax tissue.
Work generally towards the heart and in the direction of lymphatic drainage (towards inguinal, axillary and cervical nodes). Start with light pressure, build gradually and check in with the client throughout. Drape so only the treated area is exposed, and confirm consent for each area before you begin.
Body treatments
Exfoliation with salt or sugar, wraps with mud, clay or seaweed, and heat treatments. Avoid unsubstantiated "detox" claims - describe what the product actually does, such as exfoliating or hydrating.
Contraindications
Suspected DVT or thrombosis, fever or active infection, uncontrolled hypertension, recent surgery or fracture, active cancer without specialist clearance, pregnancy (first trimester, and avoid certain areas), diabetes with neuropathy, bruising and skin infections.
Worked example
A client has visible varicose veins on both calves. You avoid deep pressure directly over the veins, work proximally towards the knee and groin with gentle effleurage, and skip tapotement on that area. You record the adaptation.
Traps that cost marks
Massaging over a suspected DVT; using "detox" claims; applying heavy pressure without feedback; poor draping; skipping the medical history because the treatment is "only a massage".