Is skin-rolling considered a primary or secondary stroke?

Skin-rolling is classified as a secondary stroke in massage therapy. Primary strokes are typically deeper and more direct, addressing the underlying tissues and muscle layers, while secondary strokes like skin-rolling focus more on the superficial layers of the skin and connective tissue. Skin-rolling involves lifting and rolling the skin and underlying tissues to promote circulation and mobility, which is complementary to the primary techniques.

This technique is often employed to enhance the effectiveness of primary strokes by preparing tissues, improving lymphatic drainage, and promoting relaxation. Thus, understanding the distinction is important; secondary strokes like skin-rolling serve as supportive techniques that follow the application of primary strokes to optimize treatment outcomes.