Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/918051
84 m a s s a g e & b o d y w o r k j a n u a r y / f e b r u a r y 2 0 1 8 Types of Massage Tools We can break down handheld massage tools into four basic categories: pressing, scraping, rolling, and percussing. A pressing tool is designed for applying direct pressure. A scraping tool is designed so that oblique pressure can be applied using the edge of the tool. 1 Does the Pressing Tool Stress an Area of My Hand or Wrist? I was recently at my local massage supply store. I picked up a massage tool and pressed it on the display table. I immediately felt discomfort in my wrist. As far as I'm concerned, it doesn't matter if the massage tool was designed by NASA engineers—if it hurts my hand or wrist, it's not for me. That said, it's important to differentiate between a massage tool that causes you immediate discomfort and a massage tool that causes you discomfort the longer you hold it. Why? Because any handheld tool is going to cause some discomfort if you hold it long enough. The good news is that there's a way around pain from prolonged holding, which brings us to question number 2. 2 Can I Hold the Massage Tool in More than One Way? The key to avoiding discomfort and pain when using a massage tool is to be able to hold the tool in more than one way. By switching holds, you shift the stress on your hands so that no one area is getting overtaxed. Along with switching holds, becoming ambidextrous with tools is a must for staying pain-free. This will take some experimentation, but it will be well worth your time investment. Keep your wrists, elbows, and shoulders aligned when leaning. 3 Can I Use the Massage Tool for Light, Medium, and/or Deep Pressure? Most pressing tools pass the light pressure test, meaning you can use the tool for light pressure and your hands will feel fi ne. The challenge comes with deep pressure. For deep pressure, you should be able to hold the massage tool so you can lean into it with your body weight. Massage tools with a handle are ideal for leaning because they provide a solid foundation for you to lean in to. When experimenting with leaning, you'll want to pay special attention to body mechanics. Specifi cally, you'll want to keep your wrist straight, and your elbows and shoulders in perfect alignment. BEFORE YOU BEGIN Find the right pressing tool by asking yourself these three questions.