Isometric massage is a physiotherapeutic procedure used in people who have suffered from partial atrophy or significant muscle weakness. Isometric massage is also used prophylactically - as a kind of relaxing massage. It belongs to short treatments, which, however, should be performed frequently.

What isisometric massage ? "Isometric" means one that does not change the distance between the points and therefore remains motionless. The purpose of isometric massage is based on this lack of movement. The point is that it allows the weakened muscle to regain its strength and mass, without the need for exercise by the person undergoing the procedure. How it's possible? All thanks to the formation of isometric contraction of the muscle, which is caused by applying the hand as an external load or by any contraction. During the isometric contraction, the muscle tension increases to about 80-90 percent of the maximum value, and at the same time its initial and end attachments do not change their position - the length of the muscle remains unchanged and there is no movement in the joint.

Isometric massage: restore muscle mass and strength

Before each isometric massage session, the masseur measures the circumference of the muscle in two places so that during a series of treatments he can compare the results. Isometric massage should be performed daily or every other day for 10-20 sessions. Both the frequency and intensity of the treatment are adapted to a specific person, taking into account, among others. her age, sex, body capacity.

After the first treatments, adipose tissue is reduced, so also the circumference of the muscle. However, after subsequent isometric massage sessions, muscle mass begins to grow, and thus - also the muscle circumference. If the isometric massage does not work for a specific person, it is recommended to change the physiotherapeutic treatment.

Isometric massage: mileage

The isometric massage consists of three stages.

  1. stage - this is the preparatory phase that takes place while the muscle is still relaxed. During this stage of the isometric massage, the masseur uses classic massage elements: he kneads, strokes and rubs the muscle to stimulate it and get the effect of hyperemia. The 1st stage of the isometric massage continuesabout 8-10 minutes.
  2. stage - the actual phase, during which the masseur first works on a muscle in contraction, and then in a diastolic state. In the state of contraction, isometric massage consists of kneading, rubbing and tapping the muscle, which becomes more flexible and stronger. The actions last about 15-30 seconds, followed by a series of actions on the diastole, also 15-20 seconds - more delicate, during which you stroking and beating. The isometric massage of the muscle in contraction and diastole is performed alternately, the entire stage takes about 8 minutes.
  3. stage - the final phase, also containing elements of classic massage. The muscle is stroked, kneaded, and the person being massaged becomes relaxed. This part of the isometric massage lasts 5 minutes.

The isometric massage lasts from 30 to 45 minutes, and the massaged person lies on a special mattress, covered with a towel or in loose clothing. Performing the procedure does not require undressing, it is enough to expose the muscle / group of muscles on which the masseur works.

Isometric massage: action

Isometric massage is a therapeutic procedure aimed at restoring the proper mass and strength to the muscles, without the necessity of overloading the massaged person with physical effort. It is used in people with severe muscle damage as it speeds up their recovery. Thanks to isometric massage, lymph circulation improves, and the skin becomes firmer due to the fact that it is more oxygenated and better supplied with blood.

Isometric massage: indications

Isometric massage is therefore performed in patients who have suffered from strokes and strokes as well as those who have suffered from limb paresis as a result of prolonged immobilization. Isometric massage is also an element of physiotherapy in people with limb fractures and those who have treated the wound under a dressing for a long time. This type of procedure is also used in flaccid paralysis. It is worth adding that isometric massage not only has a healing effect, it can also be used as part of a slimming treatment and for people who want to reduce their cellulite, because it reduces subcutaneous fat tissue. What's more, the procedure is sometimes treated as part of sports training, because it strengthens the muscle strength and improves their elasticity.

Isometric massage: contraindications

There are many contraindications for isometric massage, much more than in the case of treatments that only have a preventive or relaxing effect. It is not performed in people suffering from multiple sclerosis and in the absence of muscle tone. Contraindication to isometric massage is also incomplete bone union anddisruption of the skin. What's more, it is recommended to give up this type also in the case of muscle fatigue and muscle atrophy of neurological origin. As in the case of most massages, contraindications to isometric massage are: cancer, acute circulatory failure, hypertension, varicose veins, infections, especially when there is a fever. Isometric massage is also not performed in women during menstruation and in pregnant women.

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