Massage therapy is not a one-size-fits-all practice.
Knowledgeable and skilled therapists will adjust their techniques and
tactics depending on what issues you're dealing with and what kind of
relief you hope to gain. The goal is to provide benefits that are
specific to your needs and wants, which means tailoring the massage
accordingly.
That said, there are distinct techniques under the therapy umbrella that boast different schools of thought, manipulation techniques, and health benefits. Two common practices in the U.S. are Swedish massage and deep tissue. While they do share certain characteristics and a therapist may be certified and trained in both methodologies, there are also distinct differences between the two. Knowing the hallmarks of a specific massage practice can help you choose wisely and reap the maximum benefit it.
Swedish Massage
If you're new to massage, Swedish massage is probably what you think of as a standard, "classic" massage. During a this, your therapist will employ an array of movements, including effleurage (sliding across and stroking the skin), petrissage (kneading motions), tapotement (rhythmic tapping with the palm, back, or side of the hand), vibration, and friction. The kneading and tapping can relieve muscle tension and dispel knots, while gliding and creating friction can increase blood flow to the area, stimulate nerves, and further soothe sore muscles. In general, Swedish massage works on the superficial muscles and promotes relaxation and well-being.
Deep Tissue Massage
For people with injuries or ongoing musculoskeletal issues, deep tissue massage can be just the right prescription. Unlike Swedish massage, deep tissue massage digs down below the surface muscles to directly target problem areas. By manipulating the fascia-the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, organs, and nerves-a therapist can release unhealthy muscle patterns and stretch chronically injured or overly tense muscles. Deep tissue is often included in physical therapy regimens for injury recovery. Athletes, dancers, and other people who rely on their body professionally use it to improve performance. During a deep tissue massage<, the therapist may use fingers, fists, forearms, or even elbows to reach the necessary tissue layer.
Considerations
For a soothing, full-body relaxation experience, choose Swedish massage. Deep tissue is more intense, as the goal is often to encourage injured or tight muscles and fascia to heal faster and to increase range of motion and flexibility. If you're in doubt about what's right for you, talk to your doctor before setting up a massage therapy appointment. Also, always inform your therapist of any and all physical issues you're having before he or she starts the session. Afterward, take care to hydrate and to gently stretch out any areas with residual tension. Note that it's common to experience some soreness after it, particularly a vigorous deep tissue massage. However, massage therapy should never be truly painful and is best viewed as a supplement to rather than a replacement for standard medical care.
That said, there are distinct techniques under the therapy umbrella that boast different schools of thought, manipulation techniques, and health benefits. Two common practices in the U.S. are Swedish massage and deep tissue. While they do share certain characteristics and a therapist may be certified and trained in both methodologies, there are also distinct differences between the two. Knowing the hallmarks of a specific massage practice can help you choose wisely and reap the maximum benefit it.
Swedish Massage
If you're new to massage, Swedish massage is probably what you think of as a standard, "classic" massage. During a this, your therapist will employ an array of movements, including effleurage (sliding across and stroking the skin), petrissage (kneading motions), tapotement (rhythmic tapping with the palm, back, or side of the hand), vibration, and friction. The kneading and tapping can relieve muscle tension and dispel knots, while gliding and creating friction can increase blood flow to the area, stimulate nerves, and further soothe sore muscles. In general, Swedish massage works on the superficial muscles and promotes relaxation and well-being.
Deep Tissue Massage
For people with injuries or ongoing musculoskeletal issues, deep tissue massage can be just the right prescription. Unlike Swedish massage, deep tissue massage digs down below the surface muscles to directly target problem areas. By manipulating the fascia-the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, bones, organs, and nerves-a therapist can release unhealthy muscle patterns and stretch chronically injured or overly tense muscles. Deep tissue is often included in physical therapy regimens for injury recovery. Athletes, dancers, and other people who rely on their body professionally use it to improve performance. During a deep tissue massage<, the therapist may use fingers, fists, forearms, or even elbows to reach the necessary tissue layer.
Considerations
For a soothing, full-body relaxation experience, choose Swedish massage. Deep tissue is more intense, as the goal is often to encourage injured or tight muscles and fascia to heal faster and to increase range of motion and flexibility. If you're in doubt about what's right for you, talk to your doctor before setting up a massage therapy appointment. Also, always inform your therapist of any and all physical issues you're having before he or she starts the session. Afterward, take care to hydrate and to gently stretch out any areas with residual tension. Note that it's common to experience some soreness after it, particularly a vigorous deep tissue massage. However, massage therapy should never be truly painful and is best viewed as a supplement to rather than a replacement for standard medical care.
Sam Stout is a senior SEO marketing strategist for the local online advertising group Prospect Genius.
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