Massage therapy is very effective, although there are different treatments, and understanding your options will help you determine which method is best for your needs. Most people have heard of deep tissue or Swedish massage, but there are many other types of massages you can receive, and the following guide will highlight the different types of massage therapy:

  • Swedish Massage

This is the most common type of massage therapy, and the therapist will use pressure and friction to loosen tight muscles and help you feel more relaxed. The main goal of this massage is to relax your entire body, which will be done by using long strokes to return the blood to your heart. This type of massage can also decrease muscle toxins, increase oxygen in your blood, improve circulation and flexibility and ease muscle tension. Hence, there are several benefits you will experience.

  • Deep Tissue Massage

Finger pressure will be used during this type of massage, and the therapist will also use stroking techniques to massage tissue areas where muscles are tight and knotted. A deep tissue massage can help ease chronic aches, and pain found in your neck, lower back, upper back, shoulders, and legs and reduce inflammation of your muscles. It will break down scar tissue and eliminate knots while improving circulation and helping patients recover from injuries.

  • Lymphatic Massage

During this massage, slow, circular motions and pressure will be used to move lymph fluid throughout your lymphatic system. This type of massage is often used to decrease lymphedema, a condition in which swelling occurs because the lymph fluid cannot flow normally, which will result in the buildup of fluid. Lymphatic massage will reduce swelling and pain and circulate the lymph fluid to relieve pain.

  • Sports Massage

This type of massage is perfect for athletes who often need relief from pain caused by repetitive motion, which will eventually take a toll on the body. Active individuals and athletes will benefit from this type of massage because it can improve range of motion and flexibility, quicken workout recovery times, enhance overall performance and reduce muscle and joint pain. Sports massage can also help prevent sport-related injuries and promotes tissue repair and muscle balance.

  • Oncology Massage

This type of massage is beneficial for people undergoing cancer treatments, and the goal is to help patients feel relaxed. The massage therapist may use one type of massage or combine various methods to provide you with the best results during your treatment session. They will consider your needs, focus on physical and emotional relaxation, and help relieve the physical pain that patients undergoing cancer may experience.

Prairie Sage Massage will provide you with more information regarding the different types of massage therapy and their benefits. We will discuss your condition and provide you with a professional recommendation, so contact us today to schedule an appointment!