MECHANICAL DEVICES FOR MASSAGE

Advantages All these mechanical devices decreased the therapist’s work, effort, and time. Disadvantages The therapeutic contact of the hand was lost, together with the information provided by its touch, the skill of its function.

 Classification of the mechanical devices: The devices are classified into 5 groups 1. Hand held Devices 2. Stationary massage Devices 3. Alternating pressure Devices 4. Intermittent-compression System 5. Devices for Hydromassage

Most of the hand held devices deliver the massaging action of percussion and vibration. Types of devices used in hand held devices are a. Vibrator b. Percussors c. Massage suction roller

a) VIBRATORS The vibrator oscillate at 100 to 200 Hz and an amplitude of 0.5 to 2 mm. USES: These fine oscillation have been used in various motor dysfunctions e.g. Upper motor neuron disease and other neurologic disorders. These vibration elicits the tonic vibration reflex.

b) PERCUSSORS The percussors oscillate at 10 to 50 Hz and amplitude of several millimeters. These produces Coarse (Larger) movements. Uses: These devices are used to dislodge (Remove) bronchial secretions. e.g. Bronchiectasis and cystic fibrosis

Stationary devices are not moved during the treatment. The body part to be treated is placed upon the devices and exposed to stationary oscillations. There are two types devices are available. a) VIBRATING PADS These are available in various shapes and sizes and it resembles a seat cushion. These pads can be placed on a bed, sofa, a chair or the floor. USES These devices are used in conditions of Fatigue and for general relaxation.

 VIBRATING PADS

b) VIBRATING BELT These are heavy canvas belts and it is fastened around the part to be treated. The motor fixed with the belt produces vibration. Uses This is used to melt (reduce) the superfluous fat over buttocks, thighs, and other regions.

According to the size of the devices, it is classified into two a) Alternating-Pressure mattress Which measures about 80 cm width and 190 cm length. It consist of air cells parallel to the long border of the mattress which is filled and emptied by electric air pump. A full cycle of inflation and deflation may be about 3 minutes. b) Alternating-pressure pad Which measures about 40 cm width and 50 cm length. Uses The alternating compression and release, a massage like action, empties and refills the superficial blood vessels. These devices are used for prevention and treatment of pressure sores in bedridden patient.

These devices should have the following characteristics a) They can be used only in a stationary manner. b) The part of the device applied to the patient, encircle or fully surround the limb c) They are hollow cuffs, sleeves or boots and the air which inflates and deflates the cuff d) The effect of this pneumatic massage is enhancing the flow of blood and lymph e) Once started, the machine may continue for hours

S. NO CONDITIONPRESSUREON TIME OFF TIME DURATIO N/FREQU ENCY 1Arterial insufficiency of lower limb 80 mm Hg6 sec18 secFor 1 hour/ 4 times daily 2.Prevention of thrombosis in lower limb 45 mm Hg15 sec45 secMany times 3.Lymphedema in upper limb 100 mm Hg45 sec15 sec6 hours/ 2 or 3 times daily 4.Shrinking of above- knee amputation stump 40 mm Hg60 sec15 sec2 hours/4 times daily

Hydro massage is massage by the pressure and movement of the water. The devices include 1. Shower massage 2. Whirlpool bath The size and shape is chosen according to the body part treated. Uses Therapeutic values are gained from combination of the temperature, pressure and movement of the water. These induces relaxation and improves circulation