Anatomical Locations in the Upper Limbs that Correlate with the Basic Massage Lines and Signaling Points of Nuad Thai

Abstract

This study aimed to identify anatomical structures and locations, from superficial to deep layers, that correlate to basic massage lines (BLs) and signaling points (SPs) in the upper limbs (arms and shoulders) based on the court-type Thai massage priniciples.

This was achieved through bimanual palpation of two healthy volunteers and the dissection of ten upper limbs of cadavers. The study was performed in the Anatomy Laboratory at Mahasarakham University Faculty of Medicine.

The results showed that Poed Pratu Lom upper arm (‡ªî¥ª√–μŸ≈¡) points in the upper limbs correspond to brachial arteries that run between and along the muscles and nerves brachial plexus running through the lower arms. Also, the BLs correspond to the longitudinal muscles from the muscular origins to the muscular insertion, as well as the artery and nerves between the muscles. The basic points for shoulder massage run in the same direction as the blood vessels where the arteries and nerves disappear into the hands through the
wrists. The location of the SPs correspond to the muscular origins, where the arteries and nerves penetrate into the muscles, and where the nerve travels between the muscles and associates with the elbow and shoulder joints.

In conclusion, upper limb BLs and SPs used in court type Thai traditional massage are associated with or closely related to important muscle anatomical structures, especially blood vessels, nerves, muscles, and joints.