Editing Massage (section)

==== Tools used by massage therapists ====
[[File:Bambusova masaz lytka.JPG|thumb|Calf massage with a bamboo massage tool.]]Instrument-assisted soft-tissue massage can deploy stainless-steel devices to manipulate tissue in a way that augments hands-on work.

A body rock is a serpentine-shaped tool, usually carved out of stone. It is used to amplify the therapist' strength and focus pressure on certain areas. It can be used directly on the skin with a lubricant such as oil or [[corn starch]] or directly over clothing.

[[Bamboo massage|Bamboo]] and [[rosewood]] tools are also commonly used. They originate from practices in southeast Asia, Thailand, Cambodia, and Burma. Some of them may be heated, oiled, or wrapped in cloth.

Cupping massage is often carried out using plastic cups and a manual hand-pump to create the vacuum. The vacuum draws the soft tissue perpendicular to the skin, providing a tensile force, which can be left in one site or moved along the tissue during the massage.