Uses and EffectsTo improve the texture of dry, flaky and rough

skin due to the desquamating effect of the heads.

To relieve muscular tension, aches and pains due to the rapid removal of waste products, such as lactic acid.

To improve poor circulation due to the increased blood supply. The increased arterial circulation will bring oxygenated blood and nutrients to the area, the metabolic rate will be increased therefore improving the condition of the tissues.

For spot reduction of fatty deposits in conjunction with other treatments, diet and exercise. The deeper the pressure on the adipose tissue and increased circulation to the area will aid in the dispersion of fatty deposits.

Effleurage -sponge heads used at the beginning and end of the treatment to produce Erythema and to relax the client.

Round sponge – used with light pressure for general effleurage.

Curved sponge – moulds to limbs and shoulders.

Petrissage - hard rubber heads to provide depth to the massage

Heavy pronged applicator – used on areas of solid subcutaneous fat.

Football applicator – used on dense areas such as the gluteals and for kneading.

Egg box applicator – used with deep pressure on fleshy areas such as the thighs and gluteals.

Lighthouse applicator – used either side of the spine, but great care must be taken to avoid irritation or damage to the vertebrae.

Tapotement - effective for desquamation and to produce erythema

Pin cushion applicator – effective for the treatment of rough skin.

Sucker applicator – suitable for the treatment of cellulite.

Advantages

It adds a variety to a treatment routine.It is far less personal than manual massage

and is therefore ideal for treating male clients.It can produce a much deeper massage.It is far less tiring for the therapist.It is motivating for clients on weight reduction

courses.It can be time saving and therefore increase

profits.

The therapist should perform some manual massage movements with the mechanical applicator, combining the depth of the vibratory treatment with the personal touch and continuity of the manual massage.

Talcum powder is the only medium is used oil will split and disintegrate because the heads are made from rubber. All heads should be washed with hot water and detergent and allowed to try before and after use.

Safety Precautions

Check for contra indicationsHold the head away from the client when

switching on just in case the head is insecure and comes off.

Keep the head surface parallel to the surface of the body and adapt to the body contours.

Do not use heavily over bony areas or over the abdomen with poor muscle tone.

Do not over treat one area, keep the head moving. Heavy and prolonged treatments can cause bruising and dilated capillaries

Contra indications to mechanical Massage

Skin disease and disorders

Bruises, cut and abrasions

Recent scar tissueSunburnSensitive and fine

skinLoose creepy skinOedema

Glandular swellingHighly vascular

conditionsVaricose veinsThrombosis or

phlebitisBony areasVery hairy areasEpilepsyDiabetes