Fulling is a massage technique that is used to improve circulation and range of motion. It is also used to break up adhesions and scar tissue. Fulling is a form of pétrissage, which is a massage technique that uses pressure and movement to knead the muscles.
To perform fulling, the massage therapist will use their hands to grasp the tissue, gently lift it, and spread it out. Fulling can be performed on all parts of the body, but it is most commonly used on the arms.
Fulling can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
- Muscle pain: Fulling can help to break up adhesions and scar tissue that can cause muscle pain.
- Back pain: Fulling can help to relieve back pain by improving circulation and range of motion.
- Frozen shoulder: Fulling can help to improve range of motion in the shoulder by breaking up adhesions and scar tissue.
- Tennis elbow: Fulling can help to relieve pain and inflammation in the elbow by breaking up adhesions and scar tissue.
- Achilles tendinitis: Fulling can help to relieve pain and inflammation in the Achilles tendon by breaking up adhesions and scar tissue.
The Fulling massage technique:
Fulling involves grasping the tissue, gently lifting it, and spreading it out in a kneading motion. To perform fulling on a client’s arms, follow these steps:
- Begin by having the client lie down comfortably on a massage table, either face up or face down, depending on their preference and your treatment plan.
- Warm your hands by rubbing them together, then apply a massage oil or lotion to your hands to reduce friction on the client’s skin.
- Position your hands on the client’s arm, with your fingers on one side and your thumb on the other.
- Grasp the arm’s tissue between your fingers and thumb, gently lifting and squeezing the skin and underlying muscles.
- As you lift the tissue, spread it out by moving your fingers and thumb in opposite directions, creating a kneading motion.
- Continue this fulling technique along the length of the client’s arm, from the wrist to the shoulder, adjusting the pressure according to the client’s comfort and preferences.
Fulling facial massage is a gentle kneading technique adapted from the fulling massage used on the arms.
The fulling facial massage technique involves gently grasping the facial tissue, lifting it, and spreading it out in a kneading motion. To perform fulling on the face, use a lighter touch than you would on the arms and focus on the following key areas:
- Forehead: Starting from the center of the forehead and moving outwards, use gentle fulling motions to relax the muscles and smooth out tension lines.
- Cheeks: Work on the cheeks in upward and outward motions, lifting and kneading the skin and underlying tissues to improve circulation and promote lymphatic drainage.
- Jawline: Apply fulling techniques along the jawline to release tension and help alleviate discomfort from teeth grinding or jaw clenching.
Remember to use caution when working with clients who have sensitive skin or skin conditions, as fulling facial massage may cause irritation or exacerbate existing issues. Always communicate with clients about their comfort and pressure preferences to avoid causing unnecessary discomfort or pain during the massage.