Vibration

Vibration is one of the massage techniques in which vibrations of different speeds and amplitudes are transmitted to the massaged area. Vibrations spread from the massaged surface to the muscles and tissues of the body located deeper. The difference between vibration and other massage techniques is that, under certain conditions, it reaches deep-lying internal organs, blood vessels and nerves.

The physiological effect of vibration on the body is characterized by the fact that it enhances the reflex reactions of the body. Depending on the frequency and amplitude, vibration can dilate or enlarge blood vessels. Vibration is used to lower blood pressure and reduce heart rate. After fractures, vibration reduces the time required for callus formation. Vibration can change the secretory activity of some organs.

When carrying out vibration, it should be remembered that the strength of the technique depends on the angle between the massaged surface and the massage therapist’s hand. The larger this angle, the stronger the impact. To ensure the greatest impact of vibration, the brush must be positioned perpendicular to the surface being massaged. You should not vibrate in one area for more than 10 seconds, and it is advisable to combine it with other massage techniques.

Vibrations with a large amplitude (deep vibrations), which last a short time, cause irritation in the massaged area, and long-term vibrations with a small amplitude (shallow vibrations), on the contrary, soothe and relax. Vibrating too intensely can cause pain in the person being massaged.

Intermittent vibrations (effleurage, chopping, etc.) on unrelaxed muscles also cause pain in the person being massaged. It is impossible to carry out intermittent vibrations on the inner surface of the thigh, in the popliteal region, in the area of ​​the heart and kidneys. Particular care must be taken when using intermittent vibrations when massaging older people. Painful sensations can be caused by intermittent vibration when performed simultaneously with both hands.

Caution should also be observed when performing the shaking technique. Using this technique on areas of the upper and lower extremities without following the direction of movement can lead to damage to the joints. In particular, shaking of the upper limbs leads to damage to the elbow joint if it is performed not in the horizontal, but in the vertical area. Do not shake the lower limb when the knee is bent; this can lead to damage to the bursal-ligamentous apparatus.

Manual vibration (using hands) usually causes rapid fatigue for the massage therapist, so it is more convenient to use hardware vibration. Vibration techniques can be divided into two types: continuous vibration and intermittent vibration.

Continuous vibration is a technique in which the massage therapist’s brush acts on the massaged surface without leaving it, transmitting continuous oscillatory movements to it. This technique is often used to relax muscles and reduce pain.

Intermittent vibration is a technique in which the massage therapist’s brush acts on the massaged surface with periodic breaks. This technique can be used to stimulate muscles and increase their tone, as well as reduce swelling.

When conducting vibration, it is necessary to remember that the frequency and amplitude of vibrations must correspond to age, general health, and the purpose of the massage. It is also necessary to take into account the individual characteristics of the person being massaged, for example, the presence of counter-indications to vibration.

Overall, vibration is an effective massage technique that can be used to achieve various goals such as improving blood circulation, reducing pain, relaxing muscles, etc. However, to obtain the maximum effect, it is necessary to perform vibration techniques correctly, taking into account all the risks and limitations.

Vibration: meaning, designation and formulas

Vibration, or oscillation, in mechanics is the movement of a body that does not occur in a straight line, but is accompanied by a reciprocating movement of points located on its surface. The legs of the compass from the watch case vibrate