What Is Connective Tissue Massage?: Connective Tissue Massage

Connective Tissue Massage: This massage stimulates certain physiological responses which take place in the connective layers of the body. The connective tissue is widely distributed around the body, weaving itself like a thread through all the structures; Its function is to provide a framework of support for important organs while simultaneously reinforcing the blood vessels, nerves, bones, muscles, lymphotics and developing tissue spares. It forms the superficial and deep fascia, the former blending with the skin and the latter concerned with muscles and bony attachments. This stroke technique uses different lengths of strokes, long and short and altering pressure sensations to create a range of effects, most concerned with improving the function of an area or increasing the peripheral circulation. Diagnosis and choice of movements is based on a visual assessment of the body. Areas of tension, swelling, tenderness, etc., can be seen or felt or both and these help to determine the pattern of the treatment and the area of concentration. Some of the effects of CTM include circulatory and digestive improvement, relaxation of tension and its effects, improved skin function and increased effects of sweat glands. It can also be used as a sleep inducer for insomnia. Many connective tissue movements are used within aromatherapy in combination with essential oils.

Connective tissue massage will produce both local and general effects and is a highly specialized form of therapy requiring special training and knowledge. The general effects of this massage stimulate the peripheral circulation and an treatment could be erogenous, due to the blood pressure. In most cases, with a therapeutic situation, limited but concentrated connective tissue massage will be used for the special effect rather than it being applied extensively.