Swedish massage. There is nothing like a good rub down.

After a long walk.

Swedish Massage was developed in modern times, early 1800s, by Per Henrik Ling's and his techniques developed in Sweden are now commonly used for their purported benefits worldwide.

Essentially it consists of the five basic strokes. Effleurage (light touch), petrissage (kneading), tapotement (rhythmic tapping), friction (compression), and vibration.

Is there any advantage in having a massage after a long or strenuous walk?

Looking at the results conducted by Ohio State University in 2008 results conducted on rabbits suggests that there is indeed benefits to be had from using the Swedish method of massage.

This type of massage is more gentle than some types available.

Using long strokes friction kneading and joint movement they found that the recovery time for the controlled group was quicker than those that did not receive any treatment.

By sedating the rabbits over a four day period they were put through simulated exercises.The results were quite significant. They worked on muscles that were the equivalent to the human shin muscles. After the exercises the rabbits were tested to find if there was any difference in the muscle strength and the results were quite significantly surprising.

Those that had received Swedish massage treatment were found to have 60% muscle strength where as those that do not receive any treatment their muscle strength was only 15%.

Significantly they also saw that the massaged muscles had fewer damaged muscle fibers and no sign of white blood cells present to repair muscle damage. The massaged muscles showed less sign of swelling, weighing 8% less than the non-massaged muscles.

In a study previously conducted in Great Britain the results were published in the April 2004 edition of the British Journal of Sports Medicine and they concluded that there was no measurable difference in the recovery or of the ability to perform compared to normal resting recovery but the cyclists themselves did report feeling less fatigued after a massage.

It was not discussed as to the type of massage used but one can assume that the European or Swedish method was used as this is the one most prevalent used in Europe because it is more gentle and helps to stretch the muscles back to their normal length after strong/strenuous exercises and at the same time one aspect of this method is to work towards the heart to stimulate blood circulation throughout the body.

This increases the benefit of sending the needed blood to areas in need of repair. Even though the Swedish/European method of massage puts emphasis on stimulating blood flow through soft tissue stimulation there is also emphasis on joint movement not unlike chiropractic movements consequently it can be relatively vigorous at some points of the massage.

It is usual to use oil to lessen the friction burns and to facilitate the rubbing and kneading of the body.

There are many benefits associated with properly performed Swedish massages and they include,

Pain relief.

Nerve relaxation.

Release of muscle tension and aid in relaxing the musclesAssistance with the healing of fractures, sprains and stiff joints.

Improved blood circulation.

Increased range of movement in the joints.

Release of lactic acid, uric acid and other waste products.

Reduced recovery time after strenuous exercises.

It will stretch the ligaments and tendons helping to keep them supple (One reason it is recommended that stretching exercises be carried out after a strenuous walk).

A greater self awareness of body and self in general.

Generally it helps reduce emotional and physical stress.

If you have a friend spouse or partner prepared to carryout a massage on you then all well and good for anything is normallybetter than nothing.

If it is a full body massage then this is normally carried-out on the naked body with a towel to hide one's modesty.

Performed properly a Swedish Massage is a lovely experience and an excellent way to keep the body in peek conditionso that you can continue to enjoy the Health Benefits of Walking.

n.b. If you are or, suspect that you are, experiencing either of the following symptoms then Swedish massage is not recommended for the following.

Those who have Varicose veins and phlebitis or thrombosis, diarrhea, jaundice, high fever,vomiting, nausea, and caution must be exercised if you have high blood pressure or heart problems.

Let the masseur know of any fractures or bruising and If you are pregnant then check with your physician first.

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n.b.The information here is not intended to diagnose in any way and medical advise should always be sought when undertaking treatment.