Effleurage is a massage technique that is incorporated into many different types of massage.
The word effleurage originates from the French word 'effleurer' which means to lightly touch. Effleurage is a massage technique that is utilised in multiple types of massage and is usually applied as the first technique within the massage as it allows the client to become familiar with touch. Through manual touch this stimulates the touch receptors of the skin with a circular stroking motion that prepares the individual for further techniques within the massage. Effleurage involves using long smooth motions with the palms of the hands over the skin and can be used by the specialist to target the superficial structures such as the skin which is usually employed at the beginning or end of a massage.
Effleurage is incorporated into the majority of massages and is mainly used at the beginning and end of massages in order to prepare and relax to unsure that a sense of wellbeing is gained. Effleurage as a technique can help a wide variety of cases such as:-
Above: Effleurage massage technique to warm up tissue and disperse swelling
There are a number of benefits surrounding the use of effleurage. One of the main reasons it is used as the first stage within a massage is that it improves blood circulation to the areas being stimulated such as the skin but it also stimulates the lymph flow.
Other benefits to effleurage include:-
Effleurage works by stimulating and 'warming up' the tissues by increasing the circulation and venous flow. The strokes are always maintained in the direction of the heart to achieve this effect. Through the use of touch the specialists will be able to assess the deeper structures such as the muscles to gain further information on any limitations such as tightness. To perform effleurage the specialist will mainly use the palm of their hands and their fingers to a pressure that their clients are comfortable with.
Effleurage is actually the best stroke to put the body into a rested and sedated state. It is the favoured technique that stimulates the parasympathetic and sympathetic aspects of the nervous system and helps to maintain a needed balance between the two.
Above: Effleurage massage technique to warm up tissue and disperse swelling
Overall effleurage is an excellent technique that is used in the majority of massages. It can have a wide range of benefits to individuals suffering from injuries or stressful lives. It works by stimulating the receptors in the body which helps to maintain a sense of balance throughout leading to a feel good sensation and a faster recovery.
How to book an appointment
If you would like any further information regarding massage or would like to book an appointment with a specialist then please email us on office@liverpoolphysio.co.uk or call 0151 558 0077.
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What is effleurage?
The word effleurage originates from the French word 'effleurer' which means to lightly touch. Effleurage is a massage technique that is utilised in multiple types of massage and is usually applied as the first technique within the massage as it allows the client to become familiar with touch. Through manual touch this stimulates the touch receptors of the skin with a circular stroking motion that prepares the individual for further techniques within the massage. Effleurage involves using long smooth motions with the palms of the hands over the skin and can be used by the specialist to target the superficial structures such as the skin which is usually employed at the beginning or end of a massage.
Who can effleurage help?
Effleurage is incorporated into the majority of massages and is mainly used at the beginning and end of massages in order to prepare and relax to unsure that a sense of wellbeing is gained. Effleurage as a technique can help a wide variety of cases such as:-
- Athletes of all levels
- Individuals in sedentary occupations
- Pre workout
- Post workout
- Post event
- Pre event
- Chronic pain
- post workout
- Relaxation
- Tight muscles
- Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)
Above: Effleurage massage technique to warm up tissue and disperse swellingThe benefits of effleurage
There are a number of benefits surrounding the use of effleurage. One of the main reasons it is used as the first stage within a massage is that it improves blood circulation to the areas being stimulated such as the skin but it also stimulates the lymph flow.
Other benefits to effleurage include:-
- Increases muscle recovery
- Reduces DOMS
- Reduces effects of fatigue
- Relaxation
- Early stage of healing process
- Increase blood flow
- Stimulates muscles
- Promotes a sense of wellbeing
How effleurage works
Effleurage works by stimulating and 'warming up' the tissues by increasing the circulation and venous flow. The strokes are always maintained in the direction of the heart to achieve this effect. Through the use of touch the specialists will be able to assess the deeper structures such as the muscles to gain further information on any limitations such as tightness. To perform effleurage the specialist will mainly use the palm of their hands and their fingers to a pressure that their clients are comfortable with.
Effleurage is actually the best stroke to put the body into a rested and sedated state. It is the favoured technique that stimulates the parasympathetic and sympathetic aspects of the nervous system and helps to maintain a needed balance between the two.
Above: Effleurage massage technique to warm up tissue and disperse swellingSummary
Overall effleurage is an excellent technique that is used in the majority of massages. It can have a wide range of benefits to individuals suffering from injuries or stressful lives. It works by stimulating the receptors in the body which helps to maintain a sense of balance throughout leading to a feel good sensation and a faster recovery.
How to book an appointment
If you would like any further information regarding massage or would like to book an appointment with a specialist then please email us on office@liverpoolphysio.co.uk or call 0151 558 0077.
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