Massage is an ancient healing technique that has been around for centuries. There are many different types of massage, from Deep Tissue through to Thai, Hot/Cold stone and of course Swedish etc., Swedish Massage techniques were developed in the 1800s by Johann Georg Mezger, a Dutchman, who started using friction methods to treat patients who had sprained their muscles. 

His dissertation: “The Treatment of Distorsio Pedis with Frictions” included 5 different stroke methods that he used to treat his patients. These methods are:Effleurage: Long, gliding strokes.

Effleurage: Long, sweeping strokes that are used to relax clients, warm them and spread oil

Petrissage: Focussed kneading of tight muscular knots

Friction: rubbing movements, mainly in a circular motion

Tapotement: various percussive movements, usually done with either the knuckles and/or the edge of the hands.

Vibration: a repetitive shaking of muscles

Mezger, by 1871 had developed a very good reputation as a doctor and treated Swedish King Gustav V by giving him multiple massage treatments, the mobility of King Gustav was restored in 10 days.