What Type of Massage Therapy Should You Choose?

If you’re interested in scheduling a massage, you may not realize how many types you have to choose from. Making the right selection is about more than just your preference for light pressure or deep pressure—the massage you get should be based on your health and physical condition. For example, are you hoping to relax, or do you have a specific health concern you want to address? Use this massage therapy overview to help you decide which type is right for you.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage combines multiple techniques into one incredibly stimulating massage. The therapist often uses their forearm or elbow to exert more pressure. The movements are usually slow, with plenty of communication between the therapist and the client to ensure comfort.

This could be the right massage for you if you’re hoping to treat:

• Chronically tight or painful muscles
• Strained muscles from a sports injury
• Postural problems
• Back pain
• Arthritis pain
• Stress

Reflexology

Reflexology is a therapy performed on the feet. It’s based on the principle that specific body parts correspond to certain muscle groups or organs. With the proper pressure and manipulation of nerve endings in the feet, a massage therapist can clear blocked energy channels within the body.

Reflexology aims to improve the body’s internal workings, thus promoting overall health and wellness. As such, it can treat numerous ailments, including:

• Chronic muscle tension and pain
• Stress and anxiety
• Headaches
• Digestive issues and nausea
• Poor circulation

Relaxation Massage

Relaxation massage is the perfect accompaniment to any self-care day. It’s a whole-body, hands-on treatment that utilizes smooth, gliding strokes. The therapist promotes complete relaxation using slow, light pressure in a kneading, rolling, or rhythmic rocking motion.

While this type of massage can relieve muscle soreness and tension, it’s best suited for anyone who simply wants to be pampered. It can also ease and prevent depression and anxiety, keep headaches at bay, and promote a deep sense of inner peace and tranquillity.

Cupping Massage

Cupping massage is a therapy that utilizes glass or plastic cups to create suction against the skin. Each cup is left in place for up to three minutes, creating negative pressure that promotes blood flow and stimulates the lymphatic system. This process leaves circular marks on the skin that may last for three to 10 days afterward. Soreness may occur, but the skin is rarely sensitive to the touch.

Try the cupping massage technique if you want to treat:

• Muscle pain
• Muscle adhesions (scar tissue)
• Poor circulation
• Inflammation
• Sports injuries

Prenatal Massage

Prenatal massage is a modified massage therapy technique designed for pregnant women. The client typically lies on her side or back with a foam wedge for support. The therapist directs their movements to protect the baby and make the client more comfortable both during and after the massage. For the best results, it’s critical to choose a massage therapist trained in prenatal massage.

Choose this massage treatment if you are pregnant and struggling with any of the following:

• General aches and pains
• Edema (swelling)
• Low back pain
• Physical or emotional stress

Myofascial Release Massage

Myofascial release is a type of massage therapy that aims to stimulate and stretch restricted muscles and connective tissue known as fascia. Treatment is gentle and relaxing, with extended localized pressure that soothes and softens ailing soft tissues.

Myofascial release is recommended for anyone hoping to treat these conditions:

• Chronic pain caused by injured muscle fibers
• Decreased range of motion
• Poor circulation
• Low immunity
• Poor nerve function

RAPID NeuroFascial Reset

RAPID NeuroFascial Reset is a specialized therapeutic technique that aims to alleviate tension in the central nervous system. It involves a series of targeted manual techniques and specific patient movements. The treatment may cause discomfort, but this indicates that the neurological system is being stimulated and restored to normal function.

RAPID therapy may be right for you if you have tried conventional treatments without success for the following ailments:

• Chronic pain
• Acute pain
• Plantar fasciitis
• Migraines

Clearly, massage therapy provides much more than just temporary relief and relaxation. Regular massages can help you live a healthier, more pain-free life.

For excellent massage treatments in Sherwood Park, turn to All Deep Massage & Wellness Clinic. Since 2007, we have been dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of our clients through a range of therapeutic treatments. Our clinic has a warm and inviting atmosphere conducive to relaxation and healing. We invite you to experience the renewal and rejuvenation that a professional massage can provide! Contact us today at 780-416-0659 with any questions you have, or book your next appointment online.