If you’re thinking about trying out a massage, understanding the various types and their advantages can help you select one that’s suitable for you.
Massage has many beneficial effects, such as relieving pain and improving sleep quality. Furthermore, it may boost your immune system for increased protection.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep Tissue Massage is a highly effective form of therapeutic massage that targets deep layers of muscle tissue. It can reduce pain, increase range of motion, break up scar tissue and adhesions.
Many people with fibromyalgia and chronic back pain have found relief through massage therapy. Additionally, those suffering from plantar fasciitis or stiff necks often benefit from this form of massage treatment.
In addition to its physical benefits, deep tissue massage can improve overall health by decreasing blood pressure and improving lung function. This is because the massage loosens tight muscles, breaks up toxins, and gets oxygen flowing properly.
Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger Point Therapy works to identify tense, knot-like areas in muscle tissue. These trigger points often go undetected until they’re touched, leading to stiff joints or restricted range of motion.
These knots obstruct blood flow and lead to the accumulation of waste products, creating a feedback loop that keeps muscles in spasm.
Therapists apply sustained pressure to trigger points to soften them and release toxins. They may repeat the process three or four times to guarantee all toxins have been flushed out and that the area is healing properly.
Swedish Massage
Swedish Massage is one of the most popular types of massage and it’s an effective way to invigorate your body. It involves movements like percussion, kneading, vibration, tapping and rolling for maximum relaxation and invigoration.
Around 1868, Dutch doctor Johann Georg Mezger created the Swedish technique. This involves several long, gliding strokes combined with friction and kneading to relax muscles.
Circulating helps your body rid itself of metabolic waste and toxins more quickly. Furthermore, it increases lymphatic fluid flow – which may support healthy immune function.
Massage has also been known to improve sleep. Studies have demonstrated that receiving a massage increases serotonin levels, leading to better quality rest.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial release is a type of massage that targets tight muscles and connective tissue in the body, effectively relieving headaches, neck pain and shoulder discomfort.
Myofascial Release has also been proven effective for treating fibromyalgia, an autoimmune condition characterized by pain and fatigue. Studies demonstrate that myofascial release can alleviate symptoms such as pain, sleep disruptions, depression and quality of life for those suffering from this chronic illness.
Traditional massage therapy only targets muscles and their insertions, while myofascial release addresses the entire fascial system throughout the body in a weblike pattern. Fascia can refer pain and dysfunction into other parts of the body such as tendons.
Pregnancy Massage
Massage can be a wonderful way to unwind and reduce stress during pregnancy. Additionally, it may prepare you for labor and delivery.
Pregnancy pain is a common experience, often caused by hormone shifts in the body as well as muscles straining to support extra weight and an altered structure. Massage can provide comfort for these symptoms as well as nausea and back pain.
Swelling is another common symptom, and massage therapy can help relieve this by stimulating oxygenated blood flow throughout your body. This reduces water retention and drains excess fluids from legs and feet, decreasing inflammation.