Swedish Massage is the standard form of massage we have become familiar with in Spas and Wellness Clinics in North America. Technically, it is the use of massage techniques to manipulate the muscles and connective tissues of the body. Each therapist is equally taught how to perform these techniques. It is the way in which they apply these techniques that make each therapist unique.
Massage is one of the oldest therapies dating back to the Ancient Times. It comes from the French word defined as “friction of kneading”. In actuality, the term “Swedish Massage” is only recognized in English and Dutch speaking countries. In other places of the world it is referred to as “Classic Massage”. In the 1800s a Dutch practitioner named Johann Georg Mezger developed a system of techniques for treating patients that are still used today. The five basic strokes identified by Mezger are named after their French terms:
A typical massage treatment will incorporate the use of several of these techniques throughout a session. All Registered Massage Therapists learn these same techniques. What makes each Therapist unique is the way in which they apply these techniques.
Between the 1940s and the 1970s massage was largely used by nurses to help reduce their patient's pain and promote sleeping. In the 1970s Massage grew in popularity largely due to its influence among athletes. Today Massage Therapy has shown its relevance in the medical industry as a valuable therapeutic tool to help manage pain, fatigue, joint stiffness, and improve overall function.