What is Massage Therapy?

Massages are a tool aiming to alleviate tension, reduce pain and/or stress, improve circulation, and promote overall relaxation. But what really is massage therapy, and what are its benefits?

1.) What is massage therapy?

The manipulation of the muscles and other soft tissues of the body by a massage therapist for the purpose of relaxing tight tissues, improving pain, and improving their health and well-being.

2.) Are there different types of therapy massages?

There are many types of massage therapy known as modalities. A Swedish massage is the cornerstone of these modalities. Others are sports massage, neuromuscular massage, prenatal massage and myofascial massage just to name a few.

3.) What are the benefits of massage therapy?

Physical benefits of massage include:

· Improved circulation

· Decreased muscle stiffness

· Decreased joint inflammation

· Better quality of sleep

· Quicker recovery between workouts

· Improved flexibility

· Less pain and soreness

· Strengthened immune response

· Increased range of motion

4.) For what conditions is it appropriate to consider massage therapy?

Physical pain from muscles, tendons, and soft tissue around the neck, back, and large joints tend to see improvement with massage therapy. Conditions such as fibromyalgia, headaches, and chronic back pain. Stress is a major contributing factor for a lot of ailments and massage helps to target muscular stress while providing relaxation for the body. If you are unsure of whether massage therapy is right for you then please speak with your physician.