(1) Continuous, long strokes with full relaxed hands on skin surface increases lymphatic and venous circulation 
(2) Use to relax person before using deeper strokes 
(3) Use to spread oil and connect massaged areas 
(4) Use in between other strokes and to begin massage on a given part. 

A. Light or Superficial Effleurage

(1) sedative effect 
(2) brief dilation to capillaries 

B. Deep Effleurage 
 
(1) more lasting dilation to capillaries 
(2) moves lymph and venous blood toward the heart 

 

2. Petrissage (Kneading) 
 
Skin and muscle tissue are firmly grasped or squeezed and released and raised from usual position away from bone in a circular direction using hands and fingers. 

(1) reduces soreness and stiffness of muscles perhaps due to accumulated lactic acid after exercise by stimulating circulation of blood and lymph. 
(2) invigorating or stimulating effect

 

3. Friction 
 
Often a circular movement of fingers or thumbs over skin particularly around joints and in bony areas. Can also use flat hands moving briskly over skin. 

Deep Friction 
 
Superficial tissues are moved over underlying structures (bones and muscles) with the palm or fingertips in firm contact with skin, making circular movements, especially around joints and bony areas. 

Loosen adherent skin, scars and aid absorption around joints. Limber up joints Raises local temperature of skin and makes skin pink. Reduces swelling and soreness of joints.

 

4. Vibration 
 
Rapid shaking or trembling movement applied with full hands or fingertips, continuing vibration over an area such as backbone, sternum, liver and spleen. 

Soothing if applied with pressure. 
Numbing if prolonged. 
Stimulates circulation, nerves and peristalic movement of bowels. 

5. Percussion (Tapotement)
 
Quick staccato movements of hands, simultaneously or alternately, with wrists loose; usually applied to muscular areas of body. 

A. Tapping: fingertips face 
B. Cupping 
C. Hacking: ulnar surface of hand to back and extremeties in parallel to muscle fiber 
D. Beating 
E. Slapping: 

1. Full open hand 
2. Highly stimulating 
3. Numbing if applied to long

6. Joint Movement 
 
Whether passive or active, increase the flow of synovial fluid in the joints.