If you are considering making an appointment to visit a Las Vegas massage therapy center, before doing so you should familiarize yourself with the different modalities or techniques that may be offered. One of the most popular options is the Swedish modality. This was designed by Henri Peter Ling at the University of Stockholm way back in 1812.

Originally it was prescribed as a treatment for gymnasts after they had pulled or strained a muscle. Fast forward to today and we see that it is an option that has never waned in popularity. In fact the Swedish modality is perhaps the most common form of massage now available and it also is used as the basis for many other techniques.

Swedish massage therapy is often described as being a soft touch massage and one that helps to promote relaxation in both physical and mental form. We all are aware that stress can have a very real toll on our well being. By undergoing massage therapy it is possible to drastically decrease the amount of anxiety that is felt.

The Swedish modality utilizes a number of different strokes that provide healing and rejuvenation for tired, sore, or damaged muscles. It is known to enhance oxygen absorption which in turn improves blood circulation as well as minimizing the time required for any injured muscles to recover in full. Also it is believed to accelerate the speed at which the body detoxifies itself. Do not think that it is an option only for people who suffer from real physical pain, it is also worth considering if you want to acquire immediate relaxation and stress relief.

The actual techniques that make up the Swedish form of massage are varied. Your therapist may include gliding, kneading, tapping, and vibrations to bring about the results that you desire. Each stroke would have a number of variations for different effect. One of the most well known is referred to as effleurage, this is a stroke that requires the use of the thumbs or entire hand to massage in one encompassing motion all the way from the neck to the base of the spine. Often effleurage would be given at the outset of a sitting so that the therapist can become familiar with the condition of the recipient’s body.

Another interesting component of this modality is tapotement. This stroke can be described as a drumming like motion on the body. Percussive taps are given which help to remove muscle tension. Tapotement is usually carried out with the edge of the palm or fingertips.

Friction strokes are used where deep healing and relaxation are a priority. They would generally involve circular strokes with the tips of the fingers. It is the best option for removing muscle knots.

Other concepts that make up the Swedish modality include petrissage strokes. This is given to help improve blood flow. If you suffer from any lower back pain then ask the Las Vegas massage therapy professional whether vibration techniques can be used as these are known to help release contracted muscles.