Massage is a great tool for relaxation, pain relief, easing muscle tension and more. Learn more about the common types of massage and their benefits.

What is massage therapy?

Performed by a licensed massage therapist, massage therapy involves using different pressures, movements and techniques to manipulate muscles and other soft tissues in the body. With a goal of slowing down your nervous system, massage therapy can be used to release stress and tension, provide relief from symptoms, heal injuries and support overall wellness.

Types of massage therapy

There’s a wide variety of different types of massage therapy, massages come in many different shapes and sizes. Here are some of the offerings you might find on a massage therapy menu.

Swedish massage

If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed with life, this massage may be able to bring relief. A Swedish massage is the classic go-to for major relaxation. Swedish massage is typically a full-body massage that uses a soft, gentle touch. It’s a great choice for men and women that are brand new to massages. It can help calm your nervous system. Swedish massage is also a good avenue for encouraging a relaxed emotional state of mind which can directly impact your muscles. One of the best massages for both mental and physical rejuvenation.

Deep tissue massage

Repeated activity can make your muscles get tight, you’ll see this a lot with athletes and any person that is active. However, you can get tight muscles from less active activities, this can include driving, sitting, or working on the computer. Deep tissue massage gets into your muscles and tendons to release that tightness, which then can provide pain relief. This massage is a good fit for people with general muscle tightness and chronic muscle pain.

Sports massage

While sports massages and deep tissue massages are similar in many ways, they also differ. A sports massage will often focus on the muscles that take a beating when you play sports or do another repetitive physical activity. Athletes and dancers use their bodies differently than the average person. A massage therapist with experience in sports massage can get in there to break up muscle tightness and address sports injuries.

Prenatal massage

Pregnancy causes a lot of changes to a woman’s body, the added weight alone can cause foot pain, leg pain, hip pain, and lower back pain. Prenatal massages are great for helping moms-to-be relax and can help address the aches and pains of growing a baby. Prenatal massages are wonderful for taking pressure off the hips and can help with swelling in the feet and legs. And when mom is relaxed and feeling well, the baby benefits.

Trigger point massage

Trigger points, or knots in your neck and back, are caused by tiny muscle spasms or tight spots in the tissue. In a trigger-point massage, the therapist uses direct pressure to target those spots and improve blood flow to the areas so they can release. This type of massage can be helpful for people with chronic pain.

Lymphatic massage

Lymphatic fluid has a number of important functions, two important ones include maintaining fluid levels and removing waste products from the body. Lymphatic massage uses a soft touch that’ll help your lymphatic fluid move through the body easier. Lymphatic massage is a great option for people with inflammation and arthritis. It can also be beneficial to people who have had mastectomies, which usually involves the removal of lymph nodes.

Myofascial release

The fascia refers to a web of connective tissue under the skin, it supports the muscles and allows a person to move freely. With a myofascial release, your massage therapist will knead and stretch the muscles and fascia, this is done to work out tightness and tension. This specific massage type is considered to be a form of deep stretching and is often used together with other therapeutic massage techniques. Myofascial release are good for reducing tightness in your back, neck, and shoulders.

Hot stone massage

A hot stone massage is a type of massage therapy. It’s used to help you relax and ease tense muscles and damaged soft tissues throughout your body. If a person is experiencing muscle tightness and pain, insomnia, soreness, or stress, you may want to consider trying a hot stone massage. During a hot stone massage, smooth, flat, heated stones are placed on specific parts of your body. The stones are usually made of basalt, a type of volcanic rock that retains heat.

Health benefits of massage

As we learn more about massage therapy and continue to run studies, we’re learning that massage has many benefits. Massage therapy may be beneficial for anyone but it has been noted to help people that suffer from conditions that include cancer, heart disease, stomach problems, inflammation, and fibromyalgia. Before you get your massage, be sure you talk to your massage therapist about any medical issues prior to your first session. You should also consult with your doctor to ensure a massage will be safe for you.

Here are some of the benefits of massage therapy.

Reduces stress and anxiety

That feeling of calm after a massage can aid in reducing stress and anxiety, a study found. Your body has two nervous systems: a sympathetic nervous system that drives your “fight or flight” response in stressful situations and a parasympathetic nervous system that focuses on routine and day-to-day operations that lead to relaxation and rest. A massage is thought to increase your parasympathetic response, which can decrease feelings of anxiety and stress.

Reduce pain, muscle tension and tightness

Many studies have been published that show massage may help reduce pain that includes acute back pain, neck pain, headaches and knee pain. While those results will favor that the relief is short-term, other cases receiving multiple 60-minute massage sessions a few times a week showed longer-term relief.

Improves sleep

Massage has the ability to decrease cortisol (a stress hormone) in the body, it can also increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, these are known neurotransmitters that can stabilize your mood. Studies have shown that massage therapy is beneficial for those who have insomnia related to menopause and congestive heart failure.

Improved blood circulation

Does massage help improve your blood circulation? A 2020 study found that a five minute manual leg massage could significantly increase circulation not only in the affected limb, but in the surrounding areas as well. A 2010 study came to a similar conclusion. Researchers measured the mean skin temperature of 17 healthy volunteers who underwent a 20 minute neck and shoulder massage session. In most cases, the increase in blood flow in the treated and adjacent areas has persisted long after the treatment was finished. 

Improves immune function

Is it possible to boost your immune system with massage? This study suggested that regular massages increase your body’s level of white blood cells, this specific type of blood cells is what attacks bad viruses in your body so you can heal and get better.

Improve energy

Studies have proven that massage therapy is good for you – we do know that it can reduce our fatigue. While massage does not directly increase energy, it helps reduce fatigue and may decrease symptoms that take our energy away, this can result in you feeling better. Studies have taught us that massage therapy can increase circulation, reduce pain and stress, improve our sleep quality and help with our immunity – all of these make us feel better, more energized and less fatigued.

Constipation relief

For anyone that has been dealing with constipation after surgery, this study showed that an abdominal massage may help you with bowel movements. Constipation is one of the most common digestive problems in the United States. Approximately 16 out of every 100 American adults experience symptoms caused by constipation.

Regular massages can relieve constipation by helping you release gas and waste products. They may also help treat any underlying or accompanying conditions. For example, regular massage can reduce stress and in turn reduce pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome.

Reduce fibromyalgia symptoms

When it comes to improving mood, sleep, and memory, these studies have shown that using massage regularly for over 5 weeks may improve symptoms of fibromyalgia, this is a chronic illness that causes muscle pain, joint pain, and fatigue. This study saw similar results – it shown massage therapy can be effective in easing pain for people who suffer from fibromyalgia.

Relieving cancer pain

For men and women that are taking cancer treatments, the physical, mental, and emotional toll is unprecedented. No words can describe what they’re feeling. Many have turned to massage to help lessen cancer pain, increase relaxation and improve quality of life.

There’s been a fair amount of studies that have been performed to see if massage can help reduce cancer pain. While some of these studies have suggested that massage therapy doesn’t improve cancer pain – others have shown a positive impact.

Who should try massage therapy?

A lot of you reading this article can benefit from massage — it’s a great way to improve wellness, help with pain, ease stress, and much more. If you do have a medical issue, please make sure you check with your doctor and have a conversation with your massage therapist.

For any of you that are pregnant, prenatal massages are safe. In fact, they can be healthy for you and the baby. We still recommend consulting with your treating doctor to ensure massage will be safe for you prior to booking a prenatal massage.

If you do have any questions about massage therapy that weren’t answered here, please be sure to check out our Help Center.

Not sure what type of massage is right for you? No worries, you don’t need find the perfect massage prior to booking an appointment. Many massage therapists specialize in using multiple massage techniques to address your unique concerns. This is why it’s important to tell your massage therapist exactly how you feel, that way they can treat your specific conditions and you can experience a great beneficial massage therapy session.

The different types of massage aren’t exclusive from one another. A massage therapist uses a combination of techniques to help you relax, get rid of tight muscles and address other concerns.

Try a massage with Soothe

Did you know that the Soothe Network of massage therapists are professionally licensed? It’s true, all Soothe massage therapists are required to have a license prior to joining. This ensures you’re going to get a certified therapists for your massage therapy.

And since you can book your massage right at home, you’re just a few clicks away from a professional massage at home! Here’s the link to book your massage.

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When it comes to the most popular massage types in the world, deep tissue massage is one that ranks among the top. In this article, you’ll learn what a deep tissue massage is, and how the techniques used by massage therapists can benefit you. 

What Is A Deep Tissue Massage?

Deep tissue massage is a massage technique that’s commonly used to treat musculoskeletal problems, this could include both strains and injuries. It involves applying sustained pressure using slow, deep strokes to target the inner layers of your muscles and connective tissues. This can help break up scar tissue that forms from injuries and reduce tension in muscles and tissues.

It may also promote faster healing by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation.

What Does A Deep Tissue Massage Feel Like?

For any of you who are experiencing pain, soreness, or tight muscles, a deep tissue massage can feel great as it can provide relief from what you’re feeling.

It’s important to know that it isn’t unusual to feel a degree of discomfort during the massage itself. The whole point of this treatment is to break up muscle tension, adhesions, and scar tissue that often lie in deeper musculature, so your therapist will likely apply a lot of pressure. However, you should let them know if this becomes too uncomfortable. Expect to be asked to breathe deeply when the person treating you is working on especially tense or deep areas of your muscles.

Deep Tissue Massage Benefits And Studies

Deep tissue massage offers both physical and psychological benefits. Unlike other massage techniques focusing on relaxation, deep tissue massage helps treat muscle pain and improve stiffness. But it can still help you unwind mentally, too.

A 2014 study involving 59 participants found that deep tissue massage helped to reduce discomfort in people with chronic lower back pain. The authors likened its effects to those of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (Advil).

People have also reported that deep tissue massage helps with:

• sports injuries
• fibromyalgia
• plantar fasciitis
• high blood pressure
• sciatica
• tennis elbow

A deep tissue massage may improve circulation, reduce minor aches and pain, increase range of motion, and ease inflammation. One study by the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine showed that deep tissue massage helped to lower blood pressure after just one massage session.

One of the most common deep tissue massage therapy benefits is pain reduction. According to a 2014 study in PLOS One, individuals with this condition sometimes experience “beneficial immediate effects” regarding their levels of pain, oftentimes within just five weeks of massage therapy.

This specific massage can also help with injuries, including damage to muscles, ligaments, or tendons. Scar tissue forms when an area of the body is injured and then heals. While you can have scars on the outside, you can also have them deep inside your body. Deep tissue massage can target this type of scarring and make it easier to move, promoting a greater range of motion.

Just a few years ago, there was a study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. This study looked at 27 men who had been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, or AS.

The Spondylitis Association of America explains that AS is a condition characterized by inflammation in the spine, which can eventually lead to a new bone formation in which certain sections of the spine “fuse in a fixed, immobile position.”

For those group members who underwent deep tissue massage, they ended up showing a significantly greater reduction in the severity of their AS when compared to those receiving traditional massage. They also showed a greater reduction in pain.

Studies have also shown that deep tissue massage can be effective for old injuries and rehabilitation. If you’re experincing soreness, aches, and pains, you may want to speak with a massage therapist about working deep tissue massage into your next visit. You can book a deep tissue massage here.

What Happens During Deep Tissue Massage Treatment?

As with most massage therapy sessions, the massage therapist will want to know more about your problem areas and the problems you’re experiencing. Make sure you are open and honest with them. Let them know everything that you feel and what type of result you’re looking to obtain. This will ensure the best possible outcome for you.

Once you’re ready to get your massage, you’ll be asked to lie on your back or stomach under a sheet. Your level of undress is based on your comfort, but the area being worked on must be exposed for the best possible results.

The massage therapist will warm up your muscles using a lighter touch to start. Your deep tissue sessions will be gentle to begin with. It can cover a broad area in the beginning, and then focus on the specific muscles or regions that need work. Everyone has different pain tolerance levels, so it’s possible that deep tissue massage may cause discomfort or even be a little painful. Make sure you talk to your massage therapist about the pressure being applied. If your massage gets painful, let your therapist know.

If the massage techniques are too gentle, it’s possible that the work being done will not be effective at breaking up muscle knots. On the other hand, too much pressure or extreme discomfort takes away from the benefits the massage provides. Again, this is why you want to be open and vocal with your therapist and let them know exactly how you’re feeling.

Feeling some pain or soreness a few days after your deep tissue massage is normal. Don’t be alarmed by that. Deep muscle stripping and myofascial release (MFR) may create some bruising or leave you feeling sore, but joint stretches performed during a deep tissue session should not cause pain in the days afterward.

Swedish Massage vs Deep Tissue Massage

Two of the most popular massage types are Swedish massage and deep tissue massage, which are often compared to one another. While many professionals say there’s overlap between Swedish and deep tissue massage techniques, the biggest difference is the depth of pressure being used. Here’s a quick overview to help you choose what type of massage is right for you. You can also chat with your massage therapist to help you decide.

Swedish massage

• Appropriate for someone experiencing stress and anxiety
• Great for someone wanting to relax and unwind
• Good for someone brand new to professional massage
• Good choice for someone who has a low tolerance

Deep tissue massage

• Appropriate for someone experiencing pain
• Good for those who experience prolonged muscle stiffness
• Anyone seeking pain relief
• Good for someone trying to recover from a past injury

Does Soothe offer deep tissue massage?

Absolutely! Deep tissue massage therapy is one of our most popular offerings. You can easily book a deep tissue massage with Soothe. Book a Soothe massage now to try it out!

The post Deep Tissue Massage: What Is It, Benefits, And Everything You Should Know appeared first on Soothe.

Here’s a look at how massage therapy can help relieve different types of back pain, and some tips to help you book the right kind of service,

Types of Back Pain

Unfortunately, there are many things in life that can cause a sore back. And all of these things can lead to different types of back pain. These are a few reasons why you might be feeling discomfort:

• Overall stiffness from lack of mobility
• Soreness from overuse
• Strains from bad posture
• Inflammation (generally in the lower back)
• Sciatica pain from pinching or compression in the lower back

Of course, every person is different. If you’re experiencing recurring, chronic pain, it could be a good idea to consult with your doctor. They may recommend some of the back massage techniques listed below, or provide further guidance.

Can Massage Help With Back Pain?

Yes! Studies have found that proper massage therapy can provide relief for different types of back pain, including lower back pain and overall soreness.

However, it’s important to note that a massage won’t necessarily solve all types of back pain. If you’re suffering from issues related to your spine, bones, or organs, be mindful that massage may not be the best course of action.

Since it can be difficult to recommend a specific kind of massage without more information from the client, having a knowledgeable and experienced massage therapist is a crucial part of getting the best relief possible.

Benefits of Back Massages

When massage is the best course of action, there are a number of reasons why it helps to relieve back pain.

1. Increases blood flow.

When blood flow is limited, soft tissues will contract over time. This means muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia will start to tense up and cause pain. Massage therapy addresses this by using back massage techniques by increasing blood flow and bringing circulation back to those areas. 

2. Relieves muscle tension.

From sitting to sleeping to hunching your shoulders over your computer all day long, muscles can become tight and stiff over time. Massage can help relax that back pressure, helping it come back to its natural, un-tense state.

3. Lowers stress.

Stress is unfortunately a part of most of our lives. It commonly appears in our body through physical pain, often in the low back and shoulders. A relaxing massage not only helps your muscles decompress, but it can help your mind unwind, as well. If you can leave a massage feeling less stressed, you’ll likely find that the tight areas in your back are causing you less pain.

Types of Back Massages to Relieve Pain

Depending on what kind of pain you’re experiencing, there are a few types of massage therapy to help a sore back.

1. Swedish massage

One of the most common types of massage therapy, a Swedish massage is relaxing and known for relieving muscle tension. The massage therapist uses gliding strokes and circular motions to work through your soft tissues and muscles. This is helpful in releasing back pressure and pain in over-stressed areas.

2. Deep tissue massage

Similar to a Swedish massage, a deep tissue massage takes things to a higher intensity. The massage therapist still uses their hands to work through the muscles, but they will use more pressure. This allows them to access deeper layers of the muscles. Although it can lead to greater relaxation in the end, it can be pretty intense in the moment.

3. Sports massage

Although these are especially great for athletes, anyone can benefit from a sports massage. They’re geared towards improving and stimulating blood flow, aiding in muscle recovery, addressing injuries, and loosening muscles. If you struggle with a range of motion or mobility, this may be a good option for you.

4. Point massage

Focusing on relieving knots within the muscles, a trigger point massage can do wonders for loosening tight points of the back. Knots can lead to decreased circulation, cause pain in other areas of the body, and limit range of motion. By focusing on a few spots in particular, the massage therapist can relax these stiff sections.

Other massage techniques for back pain

On top of these massage techniques, a therapist may suggest additional methods to enhance your session. 

• Hot stones are commonly placed along the spine during a Swedish massage, as heat has been shown to provide pain relief and increase flexibility in the lower back.
• Percussive therapy – which has become more common with handheld devices like Theragun – can also be used on the back. However, you want to be sure someone with experience is providing the service, as the spine can be a sensitive area for percussion.
• Oils and lotions can go a long way in providing extra relief. CBD has become popular in the massage world for promoting more relaxation.

How to Find a Professional

Depending on the type of back pain you’re experiencing, you may want to look for specific qualities in a massage therapist. Consider what their background and/or specificity is. Have they worked with athletes before, or are they familiar with treating Sciatic pain? Asking a few questions before you book your appointment can go a long way in ensuring you receive the best treatment for your issue.

If you don’t want to go out to a spa for your massage – after all, back pain can make it painful to walk out the door and drive – consider bringing a massage therapist to your home. With Soothe, you can book a professional massage therapist to come to your house. You don’t have to deal with excess movement, helping you find relief as painlessly as possible.

Soothe makes it simple to address your back pain issues, no matter when they arise. You can book a massage in over 70+ different cities throughout the world, planning it weeks in advance or reserving a same-day session. Download the Soothe App to get started!

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