The connective tissues around the joints, like the hips, the knees, the ankles and the feet, can be pulled, kneaded, or compressed. The hamstrings and calves in the back of the leg are notoriously tight and people who run often have issues related to the outer thigh area, the TFL, or the IT band.
The body parts you use to perform a massage affect the pressure. The elbows generally provide the strongest pressure. The palms and fingers will generally apply less pressure. [2] X Research source Deeper tissue massage can include pressing down with the heel of the hand, the thumb, one hand on top of the other hand, the knuckles, a fist, or the forearm. Types of massage include gliding, kneading, compression, friction, percussion, vibration, jostling and range of motion movements. [3] X Research source
Make sure the person you’re massaging does not have an existing allergy to the oil you use. To warm up the oil in advance, put the bottle in some warm water. [5] X Expert Source Marty MoralesCertified Massage Therapist Expert Interview. 20 December 2019.
Keep communication open throughout the massage and ask the person how they’re feeling so you can adjust your technique if necessary. [7] X Expert Source Marty MoralesCertified Massage Therapist Expert Interview. 20 December 2019.