Trager (Psycho-Physical Integration)

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Last modified 22/04/2025

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Chapter 60 Trager (Psycho-Physical Integration)

OVERVIEW.

Trager is a technique that combines gentle hands-on movement, relaxation exercise, and education, and is thought to address deep-seated psycho-physiological patterns in the mind (patterns that disrupt function, cause pain, and inhibit free movement) with the intent of interrupting their influence on the body. The goal is to achieve increased vitality, mental clarity, creativity, and relaxation. The approach involves both table work (patient is horizontal) and gentle exercise while the patient is vertical (for self-care) and incorporates procedures of tissue elongation, stretching, compression, rocking, jiggling, and vibration.¹

SUMMARY: CONTRAINDICATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS.

Two sources cited a total of 11 concerns for Trager. Russell (nurse) cited four concerns, whereas Ramsey (physical therapist) cited eight. The largest proportion of concerns are circulatory and pregnancy. Shared concerns included cancer and pregnancy.

Note: Few rationales are provided. Because this technique incorporates stretching, compression, and vibration, it may share similar theoretical concerns with other manual techniques.

1 Mid-Atlantic Trager Association. Web page Available at: http://www.tragermata.com. Accessed: November 30, 2005

2 Russell JK. Bodywork: the art of touch. Nurs Pract Forum. 1994;5(2):85-90.

3 Ramsey SM. Holistic manual therapy techniques. Primary Care. 1997;24(4):759-786.

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