Exploring Various Massage Techniques: A Look at Different Types of Massage
Many people are familiar with massage as a form of relaxation. Some turn to massage therapy to improve healing after an injury. Massage therapy involves the application of pressure to the muscles and joints to ease tension and pain. Massage therapists use different combinations of kneading and rubbing of the muscles and joints to achieve the desired effect. Below, we explore different types of massages, how they are applied and their benefits.
What Are the Different Types of Massage?
Swedish massage
This is the type of massage therapy that most people are familiar with. This relaxation massage therapy involves the application of gentle pressure for a full body massage that releases tension. It is a good way for those new to massage to begin their journey. It involves gentle kneading, circular motions, vibrations, taping, passive movement of the joints as well as long flowing strokes in the direction of the heart. It can last between 60 and 90 minutes.
Hot stone massage
If you are experiencing a lot of muscular pain and tension, this would be the best massage for you. Similar to a Swedish massage, it also involves gentle pressure. However, the therapist also uses heated stones. Sometimes cold stones may be used. This massage helps to ease muscular tension, relieve stress, alleviate pain, improve blood flow and promote relaxation.
Aromatherapy massage
This massage is also similar to the Swedish massage. However, it includes the use of essential oils. These are diluted and applied to the skin during a full body massage. The oils are also placed in a diffuser. Inhaling the scent of the oils enhances mood. This type of massage is suitable for boosting your mood, reducing anxiety and stress, relieving pain, relieving muscle tension and reducing the symptoms of depression.
Deep tissue massage
This involves the application of more pressure than with a Swedish massage. This is a health massage for those with muscle problems including chronic pain, tightness, injury, soreness and even imbalance. Deep finger pressure applied with slow strokes is used to relieve tension in the deepest layers of connective tissues and muscle. The massage can last anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes.
Therapeutic massage
Like a deep tissue massage, a therapeutic massage involves the use of more pressure. However, this type of massage is done with a specific goal and is directed at a specific part of the body. For example, if you are experiencing pain in the lower back, the massage will focus on this area.
Sports massage
A sports massage therapist works to improve flexibility, relieve pain, improve athletic performance, release muscle tension and reduce anxiety in their clients. They provide full-body massages or massages that focus on specific parts of the body. The massage involves alternating soothing strokes and can be adjusted to suit your needs.
Trigger point massage
This massage is designed to relieve trigger points and reduce pain. It is best suited for those with injuries or experiencing chronic pain. It can also be used to manage specific health conditions. This therapy has been shown to reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine and tension headaches.
Reflexology
This involves applying firm pressure to specific points in the hands, feet and on the ears. It is used to relax the body and restore the flow or natural energy.
Shiatsu massage
This massage helps to relieve stress, tension and pain. It is a full body massage but your therapist can focus on areas that need attention. It involves the application of rhythmic or pulsing pressure.
Thai massage
This is a massage for those that want to relieve pain and stress and live a more active life. It helps to improve flexibility, blood circulation and restore energy levels. It involves the application of firm pressure on the body. Your body may also be stretched and twisted into several positions.
Chiropractic massage
A chiropractic massage is performed as part of chiropractic care. It focuses on the joints, muscles and nerves. Its purpose is to relieve tension and improve function and mobility. The treatment is often localized to the areas needing attention.
Prenatal massage
This is a massage that is safe for women during pregnancy. It involves the application of mild pressure to reduce stress, body aches and muscle tension.
Couples massage
This massage is done with your partner or a member of your family or friend also receiving a massage in the same room. It may be accompanied by body scrubs, pedicures and other beauty treatments.
Lymphatic drainage massage
This massage is designed to encourage the circulation of lymph fluids in the body. It may be done to manage conditions such as arthritis, digestive problems and lymphedema.
Cranial sacral therapy
This involves the use of gentle pressure to manipulate the bones in the skull, pelvis and spine to increase the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. It is done to manage migraines, IBS, constipation, headaches and other conditions.
Abhyanga oil massage
This oil massage involves the application of warm oil and gently massaging the body. It is focused on nourishing the skin and helps to reduce stress, improve skin health, reduce blood pressure and muscle stiffness.
How to find a massage therapist
Are you looking for a massage therapist but youβre unsure of where to start? Look no further than Higher Health Chiropractic. Our massage therapists have years of experience and take a personal, holistic approach to each client. Not only are our therapists trained, certified and licensed, but they truly love what they do and their passion shines through. Contact us today!