Muscle and tendon pains in the body are hard to get rid of with a single pill or a few extra stretches. When not addressed, these problems can worsen over time and become a burden. Whether muscle and joint pain is caused by stress, chronic illness, or strenuous use, it can be extremely beneficial to seek out the skills of a professional massage therapist. Massage therapy can lead to immediate pain relief, and it can promote a healthier body long after the massage appointment.

Before settling into the massage chair or laying down on the massage table for the first time, it’s important that you and your therapist know what type of massage is best for you. While the professionals at massage therapy Pickering and massage therapy Milton are skilled in a variety of massage forms, it may be helpful to visit our service page to learn more.

There are a variety of techniques masseuses use when giving a massage; in fact there are over 200 different types of massage. Some are more intense than others and it’s helpful to have some basic knowledge of the differences before making an appointment. Some of the more common forms of massage are as follows:

Swedish Massage

This form of massage is beneficial for relaxation and relieving tense muscles. Swedish massage is also known as the “classic massage.” Many clients who are new to massage therapy elect this type initially. During this treatment the massage therapist uses a combination of long, sweeping strokes, kneading, and tapping to help loosen and relax muscles.

Deep Tissue Massage

is derived from the Swedish massage in terms of the some of the techniques that are used; sweeping strokes and kneading of the muscles are commonly used in a deep tissue massage. However, more intense pressure is applied to the areas than in a Swedish massage. For this reason, many clients hold the opinion that a deep tissue massage is less relaxing than a Swedish massage. Deep tissue massage may also include shiatsu and Tuina Chinese Traditional massage.

Hot Stone Massage

In this form of massage heated stones are used. The stones are laid onto the tense areas of the body and then are massaged into the muscles. This type of massage is used more for relaxation purposes. Individuals who have chronic pain enjoy adding heat to those sore areas of the body. During a hot stone massage techniques of Swedish massage are generally applied.

Chair Massage

A massage chair is generally used for treatments that are shorter in time than in a full body massage. The head, neck, shoulders and back are the prime areas of focus. While chair massage time lengths vary, they are usually around thirty minutes.

Full Body Massage

As one can usually guess, a full body massage includes massage treatment from head to toe. To make the most of this type of massage, it is recommended to make an appointment that is at least 50 minutes in length. However, most clients prefer a longer period of time to get the most out of their treatment.

Athletes who exert certain muscle groups for their sport can greatly benefit from a deep tissue massage. After intense training, certain parts of the body can feel tight or very sore. After receiving a deep tissue massage treatment these areas generally feel more relaxed and limber.

Even non-athletes can gain from a deep tissue massage. Unfortunately, emotional stress can take a toll on the body; many individuals feel as though they carry the weight of the world on their shoulders. This stress often leads to tense or knotted muscles in the neck, shoulders, and back. Following a deep tissue massage, clients can feel immediate relief – as though a gigantic weight has been lifted.

When should I avoid massage therapy?

Touch therapy is generally a healthy option for most people. There are only a few instances when it should be avoided. It may be better to avoid a massage if any of the following are present: fever, nausea, severe wounds or sunburns, or if there are other major skin issues or sensitivities.

Also you may need to avoid massage therapy at your first trimester of the pregnancy, during the second and third trimester massage therapy could help to relieve muscle and nerve pain however there are few trigger points should be avoided to reduce the risk of harming unborn baby; consult your massage therapist in regards with prenatal massage therapy.

If there is doubt as to whether a massage could be problematic, or a massage technique, it is best to consult your massage therapist at Pro Fusion Rehab. Even during the treatment, communicate any worries with the clinician. And don’t be afraid to alter the massage form. For many, a deep tissue massage initially seems like it could be too intense; yet many soon get hooked on how relaxed the muscles feel afterwards. The therapists at Pro Fusion Rehab develop a specific massage treatment based on the needs of their patients. They can visit us online or in the clinic to learn more about available treatment options.