Massage Therapy

While many massage techniques induce relaxation with soothing and gentle kneading, deep tissue massage involves more intense muscle manipulation. Deep tissue massage therapy is similar to Swedish massage, but the deeper pressure is beneficial in releasing chronic muscle tension. Additionally, this type of massage reduces stress hormone levels and heart rate while boosting mood and relaxation by triggering the release of oxytocin and serotonin.

Unlike most traditional massage that promotes whole-body relaxation, deep tissue massage is often used to target specific trouble spots after an accident or injury has left you stiff and sore, as in instances of whiplash or falls.

Deep tissue massage is used to treat a variety of physical ailments, such as: 

• Chronic pain
• Fibromyalgia
• Injured muscles
• Limited mobility 
• Postural problems
• Sciatica 
• Osteoarthritis

A Typical Deep Tissue Massage

Before a deep tissue massage, a trained and certified massage therapist will discuss the client’s accident, injury, or complaints of generalized stiffness, gaining an understanding of how the pain or injury is impacting the client’s daily life and what he or she is hoping to gain from the massage therapy. The massage itself will be customized to the specific needs of the client, focusing on the stiff, sore, and achy areas that are of the most concern.

Deep tissue massage works by breaking down muscle adhesions that can build up after an accident or a chronic illness. By applying intense, controlled pressure and friction to an afflicted area across the grain of the muscle, deep tissue massage relaxes rigid tissue and relieves the pain associated with stiff muscles, ligaments, and tendons.

Deep tissue massage may cause some discomfort, and therapists encourage their clients to keep them informed about their comfort level and pain tolerance during deep tissue therapy.

Therapists may encourage their clients to apply ice to tender spots following a deep tissue massage. Some soreness the day after a deep tissue massage can be expected, though the discomfort should pass in a day.

Indulgent and soothing relaxation massage may not provide therapeutic treatment, but the psychological benefits of the deep relaxation it provides are equally beneficial to the body, mind, and spirit. Intended to relax tense muscles and ease stress, relaxation massage is the perfect antidote to workweek stress and a wonderful way to unwind.

Relaxation massage is typically performed in a temperature-­controlled room with a soothing ambiance, delicate lighting, and relaxing music. The client lies comfortably on a massage table, undressed but adequately draped with a large sheet. This type of massage is entirely customizable. The massage therapist will tailor the massage to the needs and preferences of the client and increase or decrease pressure accordingly. Gentle and soothing relaxation massage involves rubbing and kneading the upper tissue layers, inducing profound tranquility that can often lull clients to sleep.

Relaxation massage focuses on the neck muscles and shoulders, where much tension is held, as well as the muscles of the back, legs, and feet for head­-to­-toe soothing. Fragrant oil aromatherapy is often combined with relaxation massage for a holistic and nurturing sensory experience.

Following a relaxation massage, clients should feel relaxed, pampered, and recharged. In the hours following a relaxation massage, clients are encouraged to drink plenty of water to help flush toxins and rehydrate the body.

Though originally designed to help athletes perform at optimum levels during games, sports massage is growing in popularity as an effective treatment for sports-related injuries or limited range of motion. Sports massage focuses on a client’s trouble spots, like shoulder soreness after eighteen holes of golf or a tender hamstring just before a big race. Sports massage therapists understand sport-related injuries and can help minimize pain, speed recovery, and help clients perform their best at their favorite activities with full range of motion.

There are four variations of sports massage, and choosing the right one is based on the client’s current level of discomfort and upcoming athletic events:

• Pre-event sports massage involves a vigorous and stimulating Swedish massage that targets the muscles that will be used during the upcoming event, boosting circulation and revving up energy levels with brisk massage techniques that invigorate.
• Post-event sports massage is designed to help the athlete wind down after intense physical exertion, targets muscle soreness and helps to normalize body tissues and prevent muscle stiffness the next day.
• Restorative sports massage is provided during training to keep an athlete at peak performance level. Muscles are kept warm and supple, enabling more intense exertion during training time and minimizing the risk of injury.
• Rehabilitative sports massage is aimed at treating sports injuries and speeding recovery time. Targeted at a specific trouble spot, rehabilitative sports massage helps increase circulation and protect range of motion.

For anyone participating in regular physical activity, sports massage therapy every week or two may be a great addition to your normal regimen.

Considered the perfect balance of therapy and relaxation, Swedish massage is universally popular for its gentle yet effective results and benefits. Swedish massage is the perfect “beginner’s massage,” providing gentle pressure and friction that soothe sore muscles and loosen tight joints. Among its many benefits, Swedish massage effectively eases tension, wipes out stress and promotes deep relaxation. 

Swedish massage is performed on a massage table with the client undressed and draped in a sheet for comfort and privacy. Using massage oils to lubricate the skin, Swedish massage consists of massage strokes that vary from smooth gliding to kneading, stretching, and tapping.

The pressure and amount of friction used during a Swedish massage can range from light to firm, depending on the preference of the client and the goals of the therapist. As with any massage procedure, the client’s comfort level is of the highest importance and clearly expressing touch and pressure preferences to the therapist can only enhance the overall experience and increase the effectiveness of the massage.

Swedish massage therapy goes beyond relaxation. This type of massage is exceptionally beneficial for increasing the level of oxygen in the blood, decreasing muscle toxins, and improving circulation and flexibility while easing tension.