When performing upward deep effleurage on the lower extremities, what is this movement called?

When performing upward deep effleurage on the lower extremities, the movement is referred to as centripetal. This term describes the technique of moving towards the center of the body. In the context of massage, centripetal movements enhance relaxation and promote lymphatic drainage by moving towards the heart, allowing for better blood circulation and revitalization of the tissues.

Centrifugal, on the other hand, refers to movements that move away from the center of the body and are typically less common in techniques aimed at promoting relaxation or aiding in venous return in the lower extremities. Radial movements generally refer to techniques that flow outward from a central point but are not specifically tied to the upward motion observed in effleurage. Transverse movements are characterized by horizontal strokes across the body rather than the vertical direction utilized in effleurage.

Understanding these movement types and their implications in massage therapy helps practitioners apply techniques more effectively to meet therapeutic goals.