There are many types of massage therapy that target different ailments. Through soft tissue manipulation, massage therapists can help people heal, relax, or reduce body pain and tension. Continue reading to discover various kinds of massages and their benefits.

Swedish Massage

A Swedish massage is the most common types of massage therapy. Techniques include kneading, tapping, circular motions, and long strokes. You can usually book appointments to last 60 to 90 minutes.

  • Advantages of a Swedish Massage: A Swedish massage is fairly gentle, making it perfect for individuals getting their first massage treatment. Swedish massages are highly beneficial for releasing tension, improving blood circulation, and boosting your mood.
  • Types of Targeted Pain: The focus of a Swedish massage is to release muscle tension, loosen knots, and ease joint pain. It can also help people with headaches, depression, anxiety, stress, and chronic pain.
  • When to Expect Results: First-time or infrequent massage clients can feel muscle soreness or tightness following their session. It can take a couple of hours to a day and a half to feel the benefit of a Swedish massage.

Deep Tissue Massage

One of the more intensive types of massage therapy is the deep tissue massage. Rather than relaxation, this massage focuses on treating chronic pain and injuries. Sessions can be 60 or 90 minutes long.

  • Advantages of a Deep Tissue Massage: Benefits of deep tissue massage include reduced pain and inflammation, increased flexibility, and improved posture. Deep tissue massages can also be good for your phycological health as it relieves stress.
  • Types of Targeted Pain: Deep tissue massage treatments target sport injuries, such as tennis elbow, muscle strains, and plantar fasciitis. Chronic pain is also targeted for conditions including fibromyalgia, sciatica, and chronic muscle pain or tightness.
  • When to Expect Results: After a deep tissue massage, it’s common to be sore for 24 to 48 hours. Allow your muscles to heal by resting for at least 24 hours. Once recovered, you will begin to feel the positive effects.

Prenatal Massage

Prenatal massages are suitable for women in their second or third trimesters. A prenatal massage shares similarities with Swedish massages, including craniosacral and myofascial release therapies. One session can last 45 to 60 minutes.

  • Advantages of a Prenatal Massage: The many advantages to prenatal massages include both physical and mental health benefits. Prenatal massages reduce the chances of premature labour, boost immune systems, and lessen symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression.
  • Types of Targeted Pain: Prenatal massages target leg, lower back, and hip pain. Prenatal massage can decrease swelling in arms and legs. This type of massage treatment is also great for alleviating joint pain.
  • When to Expect Results: Following a prenatal massage, you may feel lightheaded or fatigued. You can expect to feel the benefits within a couple days of the massage. Regular sessions throughout your pregnancy can lead to greater benefits. Consult with your doctor first.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Lymphatic drainage massages promote a healthy lymphatic system.

Massage techniques include a light and rhythmic movements such as tapping and circular motions. Lymphatic drainage massages are typically 60 minutes.

  • Advantages of a Lymphatic Drainage Massage: The lymphatic system is crucial for maintaining good circulation and eliminating toxins from the body. Lymphatic drainage massages improve oxygen saturation, lower your heart rate and blood pressure, and accelerate wound healing.
  • Types of Targeted Pain: A lymphatic drainage massage prevents and treats lymphedema and helps with skin disorders and digestive issues, as well as migraines and insomnia. Lymphatic drainage massages effectively manage pain associated with fibromyalgia, edema, and arthritis.
  • When to Expect Results: Massage clients will experience and notice results at different rates. Most commonly, fluid takes 24 to 48 hours to fully drain after your massage.

Relaxation Massage

The primary focus of a relaxation massage is to eliminate stress and tension from the body. It’s a gentle type of massage, similar to Swedish massages. Relaxation massages are often 60- to 90-minute sessions.

  • Advantages of a Relaxation Massage: Relaxation massages have multiple advantages, including heightened mood, alleviated stress, and better circulation. You can have relaxation massages between training or workouts to help decrease risks of injury.
  • Types of Targeted Pain: Relaxation massages target muscle tension and mental health concerns. You may schedule a relaxation massage after a long work week, or if you’re experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression.
  • When to Expect Results: Relaxation massages can provide immediate benefits, including reduced pain and loosened muscles. The effects of a relaxation massage will become more prevalent over the span of 24 to 48 hours.

Let’s Book Your Next Massage Therapy Session

There are numerous types of massage therapy available, with something for everyone. Visit Positive Mind Wellness to learn more about the registered massage therapies that can improve your well-being.

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