Massage Techniques Used in Massage Therapy

People have used massage therapy for centuries to relieve discomfort and promote overall wellness. It continues to be popular as people understand its health benefits. Massage involves rubbing, pressing, and manipulating the muscle and other soft body tissues using the hands and fingers.

 

There are different styles or techniques used in massage therapy, and they vary in movements and pressure. Therapists learn various techniques to provide the most effective results for their clients. Find out the massage techniques used in massage therapy.

Petrissage/Body Kneading

Body kneading is a massage technique that is relatively easy to perform. It involves using the palms and thumbs to apply pressure on the body. It helps pull muscle away from the bone, reducing muscle spasms.

The pressure intensity and speed applied to the skin are essential when performing the massage. Massage therapists adjust the speed and pressure to suit the client’s preference. The client should not experience pain or discomfort during the massage.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage involves the application of pressure, and it is effective for relieving chronic muscle tension. The massage technique reaches into the deep tendons and muscle layers. It is ideal for lowering blood pressure and reducing stress hormones. A deep tissue massage helps trigger serotonin and oxytocin, the mood-boosting hormones.

Swedish Massage

Swedish massage techniques are a popular way to provide complete body relaxation. Therapists use long strokes to encourage blood flow to the heart. The massage technique is excellent for providing relaxation. It is ideal for increasing oxygenation in the blood and reducing blood toxins. It also helps soothe tension and boost the circulatory system.

Reflexology Massage

Reflexology massage involves the massage of the client’s upper legs, calves, and feet. It helps relieve pain in the ankles and toes, making it ideal for treating arthritis and plantar fasciitis. It also helps reduce stress and anxiety, and the massage has long-term health benefits when done regularly. It is essential to stretch and rest after a reflexology massage.

Prenatal Massage

Prenatal massage techniques are a helpful addition to the pregnant woman’s wellness regimen. The massage helps alleviate common pregnancy discomforts such as:

 

• Neck and back stiffness and pain

• Leg cramps

• Headaches

• Swelling
  
   

Expectant moms can find the massage helpful for reducing joint stress, which helps improve circulation. It also relieves prenatal anxiety or depression caused by hormonal changes.

 

Sports Massage

The sports massage technique treats athletes with stressed, sore, and overused muscles. It has become a vital part of sports training programs. It helps athletes prepare for and recover from events.

The massage technique helps improve endurance, flexibility, and mental clarity and reduces fatigue. After the massage, clients can enjoy reduced stress and anxiety before events.

Other massage techniques include:

• Hot stone massage

• Lymphatic drainage massage

• Thai massage

• Shiatsu massage
  
   

There are many benefits of getting a regular massage. These include reduced muscle tension, improved range of motion, reduced fatigue, improved blood circulation, and increased relaxation. It is crucial to ensure that you visit an experienced massage therapist for the best results.

 

Massage therapy can help relieve health disorders such as lower back pain, migraines, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome, and sciatica.

For more information on massage techniques used in massage therapy, contact Cooper Chiropractic & Wellness Center at our New York, New York office. Call (646) 941-5061 today to schedule an appointment.