=Kneading.=—Kneading is one of the most important procedures in massage. It consists in the alternate compression and relaxation of the tissues, the hand not being allowed to slip over the surface as in friction. It may be administered in various ways, such as rolling, wringing, and the use of the palm or fingers. Furthermore, it may be deep or superficial. Superficial kneading stimulates all the functions of the skin, increases superficial circulation in the blood-vessels and lymphatics. In deep kneading the object is to influence the deep-lying muscles, and care should be exercised in this procedure not to injure the large blood-vessels and nerves. Here a knowledge of anatomy is essential. In the beginning of deep kneading little pressure should be exercised until tolerance is established; then greater pressure may be exercised without discomfort to the patient. It is quite essential that each muscle group be gone over carefully and thoroughly, so that every muscle so far as possible shall be included in the treatment. The physiologic effect of deep kneading is a stimulation of the functions of the nerves, blood-vessels, lymphatics, and cellular metabolism of the muscles. It is of especial benefit to patients who are unable to take a sufficient amount of active exercise, such as those suffering from neurasthenia, rheumatism, chronic neuritis, locomotor ataxia, and from localized disturbances, such as fractures, sprains, etc. =Vibration.=—This procedure consists of vibratory movements to the body of the patient through the hand of the operator. It may be given by using the palmar surfaces of the hand or the finger-tips. This procedure stimulates the superficial circulation and acts as a mild general stimulant. It may be used in conditions of poor circulation from any cause, but is contraindicated in conditions of hypersensitiveness. =Percussion.=—This procedure consists of blows or taps with varying degrees of force. The tips of the fingers may be used, the two hands alternating, or the palmar or the ulnar surface of the hands may be used for the same purpose. In any case, the force should not be sufficient to bruise the tissues. The physiologic results of percussion are stimulation for functions of the skin and a marked effect upon the underlying structures, muscles, nerves, and blood-vessels. It is useful in such conditions as sciatica, inactivity of the liver, chronic constipation, poor circulation from various causes, and to produce reaction after a cold bath, etc.