Why do these zones work together?
The muscles of the neck and shoulder girdle are attached to the occipital bone, so their spasm is directly transmitted to the muscles of the head - this is how a characteristic pain is formed, covering the back of the head and spreading to the forehead in a “hoop”. Massaging just the head will provide temporary relief if the source of tension remains in the neck. A combined session works through the entire chain and is therefore more effective for tension headaches, prolonged work at the computer and chronic stress. Many patients also note a decrease in tinnitus and dizziness associated with muscle tension.
Why massage is counted by zones
The cost and duration of the session are determined by the area of the treated surface and the number of muscle groups. Working on the collar area takes 15–20 minutes, on the back – twice as long, and a general massage of the whole body – about an hour.
This approach is also convenient clinically: the doctor prescribes an effect specifically on the problem area, and not “massage in general.” For lower back pain, there is no point in paying for arm work, and for tension headaches, the key area will be the neck and shoulder girdle.
How does massage therapy work?
Mechanical action improves blood circulation and lymphatic drainage in tissues, relieves muscle spasms, reduces pain and increases mobility. For chronic back and neck pain, massage is included in standard treatment regimens along with physical therapy.
The effect is cumulative: after one session, temporary relaxation occurs, a stable result appears by the end of the course of 8–10 procedures.
Contraindications
Massage is not performed in acute inflammatory processes and high temperature, purulent skin diseases, vein thrombosis, bleeding, in the acute period of injury and in case of malignant neoplasms without the consent of the oncologist. For hypertension, pregnancy and after operations, the technique and zones are selected separately.