Massage Therapy Types and Styles

Massage therapy may be targeted at any number of body structures, and applied in a variety of styles to aid in healing, stress relief, or pain management. There are four basic types of massage offered by most therapists.

Swedish massage increases circulation and blood flow by using long powerful strokes, kneading, friction, and vibration. Lotion, cream, or oil is often applied to the skin to enhance the smoothness of massage strokes.

Deep tissue massage is especially useful for the treatment of specific muscle damage. By working a particular joint or muscle, the therapist is able to focus on deeper soft tissue. Starting gently at the surface, the massage gradually works in to the depths of the muscle, easing tension and pain in the injured area.

Sports massage is a treatment intended to prevent injuries, enhance performance, and aid in the rehabilitation of athletes. This style draws from a variety of techniques including soft tissue massage and gentle stretching to maintain function in muscles and joints during athletic exertion.

Chair massage is a deeply relaxing method of massage therapy that reduces tension in the shoulders, back, neck, head, and arms. A chair massage conveniently lasts between 15-20 minutes, and may be performed in hotels or airports as a way to promote muscle stimulation and stress relief.

Massage therapists and their clients may use one or all of these techniques in order to target a specific ailment or provide full body relaxation. The more you learn about massage, the better you will be able to take full advantage of its benefits.