How to Perform Whole-Body Stroking and Pushing Massage

During prone position massage, the patient lies prone with both lower limbs straight, a small pillow placed beneath the ankle joints, both hands positioned under the chin or in front of the head, and breathes freely.

Technique & Patient assumes a prone position for massage, with the massage therapist standing on the patient’s left side.

Manipulation: The masseur places the palmar fingers of the right hand on the patient’s left shoulder and the palmar fingers of the left hand on the patient’s right shoulder. During the manipulation, the masseur applies a slight downward pressure with both hands to perform a stroking and pushing movement from the back, to the waist, to the buttocks, down the posterior aspect of the lower limbs to the feet (sliding out from the tips of the toes). This is called the whole-body stroking and pushing method, and it is performed continuously for 3 repetitions.

Key Points: When performing the stroking and pushing movements, both palms and fingers must apply force simultaneously. In cases where the body and lower limbs are uneven in height or vary in fat and thinness, attention should be paid to moving slowly, applying force evenly and steadily, without varying the force from light to heavy or the speed from fast to slow. When the palms and fingers slide out from the tips of the toes, perform a slow lifting motion to relax the force of the palms and fingers at the tips of the toes.

Actions：This method has the effects of relaxing muscles and stimulating cutaneous nerves.

Q1: What is the whole body stroking massage technique?

A1: The whole body stroking massage technique involves using long, smooth strokes with the palms or fingers to glide over the skin, typically in the direction of muscle fibers. It is a foundational method in Swedish massage that promotes relaxation, improves circulation, and prepares the body for deeper work. In prone position, the therapist often begins by placing the palmar fingers on the patient’s shoulder and then stroking downward along the back.

Q2: What are the benefits of prone massage for relaxation and pain relief?

A2: Prone massage allows full access to the posterior chain, including the back, glutes, and legs, which are common sites of tension and pain. The patient lies face down with support under the ankles and hands under the chin, enabling deep relaxation and free breathing. This position enhances the effects of whole body stroking and pushing techniques, effectively reducing muscle stiffness, improving blood flow, and alleviating pain.

Q3: What are the steps for whole body stroking and pushing massage?

A3: The steps begin with the therapist standing on the patient’s left side as the patient lies prone with legs straight and a small pillow under the ankles. The therapist places the palmar fingers of the right hand on the patient’s left shoulder and uses long, gliding strokes downward along the spine and back. Then, pushing motions are applied with the base of the hand or thumbs to work deeper into muscle groups, progressing from the upper back to the lower back and legs.

Q4: How does the masseur position the hands during a whole body stroking massage?

A4: During a whole body stroking massage in the prone position, the masseur typically stands on the patient’s left side and places the palmar fingers of the right hand on the patient’s left shoulder. Both hands are then used alternately or together to apply long, effleurage strokes that travel down the back, followed by pushing motions with the palm or thumbs to knead and release tension.

Q5: Why is the prone position commonly used for whole body stroking and pushing massage?

A5: The prone position is used because it provides optimal access to the back, shoulders, and legs, allowing the therapist to perform whole body stroking and pushing techniques effectively. With the patient lying face down, lower limbs straight, and a pillow under the ankles, the spine aligns naturally, facilitating relaxation and pain relief. This position also lets the patient breathe freely while the therapist applies consistent strokes and pushes to relieve muscle tension.