- Written By: Diane Goettel
- Edited By: Bronwyn Harris
-
Copyright Protected:
2003-2012 Conjecture Corporation
A hand massage is a massage that specifically targets the muscles in the hands. This type of massage may be used alone or experienced along with a longer massage such as an arm massage, a massage that targets that arms and upper back, or a full-body massage. A hand massage can be especially useful for people who spend a great deal of time working with their hands. It can also provide relief for people who spend many hours a day at a computer keyboard.
It is common for massage therapists to use reflexology techniques while performing hand massages. Reflexology is an alternative therapy that relies on the belief that certain points on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to specific organs and areas within the body. According to the principles of reflexology, applying pressure to specific points on the hands during a hand massage can help to relieve pain and assuage some ailments in the corresponding body parts. Reflexology also promotes general good health and improved circulation throughout the body.
A hand massage is a good alternative for those who are uncomfortable having a full-body massage but would still like to experience the relaxation and health benefits that a massage can offer. To experience this kind of spa treatment it is not necessary to remove any articles of clothing unless, for some reason, you happen to include gloves in your daily attire. Furthermore, a hand massage can be enjoyed while sitting in a comfortable chair. This is an attractive feature to some people who feel vulnerable while lying down on a massage table.
Some spas include hand massages in their manicure treatments. In general, a hand massage can be added to a manicure for an additional fee. Furthermore, these kinds of massages are usually available to both male and female clients who have booked manicures. Some spas offer hand massages to clients while they are resting with a face mask.
While hand massages can be enjoyed at a spa, they are a lovely way to relax at home. Trading hand massages with a partner can be a very nice way to relax or wind down after a long or stressful day. Hand massages can be enjoyed almost anywhere: at home, while taking a break during the work day, and even while traveling. All that is required is a bit of hand lotion and a partner or friend who is willing to exchange massages.
Related Videos
Discuss this Article
|
Mammmood
Post 4 |
@allenJo - One of the most effective hand massage techniques is to keep the hand all the way open, and then in circular motions apply a massage all around the hand on the palm. Then turn your hand over and do the same for that side.
Finally, massage the section between the thumb and the index finger. This is where your store a lot of tension especially if you type a lot.
I follow these techniques and have been able to minimize a lot of the pain that I usually get while typing. This is very important for me as I type all day.
|
|
NathanG
Post 3 |
I lived in Asia for some time and did a lot of walking around with bare sandals. After awhile my feet got really tired and I went to a local country club and got a foot massage. Actually they claimed to be using reflexology.
I was shown a chart with all the pressure points on the foot and the parts of the body they corresponded to. I was given the foot massage and it was one of the most relaxing treatments I’ve ever received; it made my whole body feel alive.
I can’t vouch for whether it had any particular curative powers for my body as a whole, but it did make me feel much better, and thereafter I made it a part of my weekly regimen. |
|
MrMoody
Post 2 |
@allenJo - I do the same thing except that I use battery powered hand massagers. These units operate in a gyroscopic manner to apply deep massage to the pressure points, and they can be set to varying degrees of intensity. The unit I have also has a heat switch which really helps too. |
|
allenJo
Post 1 |
I had carpal tunnel syndrome for some time and experienced tremendous relief by applying kneading hands massage therapy. I apply massage to three points in my palm: near my thumb, opposite the thumb but near the wrist and on the upper part of my palm. Basically these three pressure points form a triangle on my palm.
What this does is to release the tension on the muscles that are pressing against the median nerve. As these muscles are relaxed, I felt less pressure in the carpal tunnel and I could type more freely.
This massage basically mimics what happens in a carpal release, which is a surgical approach that physically widens that area pressing on the median nerve. However, you can accomplish the same results using massage therapy techniques, and avoid surgery altogether.
|
