different types of massage therapy

Deep tissue massage is a specialized massage technique that targets the deeper layers of muscles and connective tissues. Unlike traditional Swedish massage, which primarily focuses on relaxation, deep tissue massage is a massage technique that focuses on the deep tissues including the muscle, fascia, and connective tissue.[i]

DTM is most often performed on areas prone to pain such as the shoulder, neck and waist. Overall, this therapeutic approach aims to break down adhesions, release tension, improve blood circulation, and restore optimal functioning of the musculoskeletal system.

MLD is a light, skin-stretching massage that helps promote the movement of lymphatic fluid out of the swollen limb. It should not be confused with a traditional massage. MLD is specifically focused on the lymph vessels to help the flow of lymphatic fluid. Therapy is applied to your unaffected areas first, making it possible for the fluid to move out of the affected area, or “decongest” the region. MLD helps open the remaining functioning lymph collectors and move protein and fluid into them, as well as to help speed up lymph fluid flow through the lymphatics.

Deep breathing techniques called diaphragmatic breathing are usually done at the beginning and end of a therapy session to help open the deep lymphatic pathways. It’s not only relaxing, but it helps increase movement of fluid toward the heart.

Prenatal massages are adapted for the anatomical changes you go through during pregnancy. In a traditional massage, you might spend half the time lying face-down on your stomach (which is not possible with a baby belly) and half the time facing up (a position that puts pressure on a major blood vessel that can disrupt blood flow to your baby and leave you feeling nauseous).

But as your shape and posture changes, a trained massage therapist will make accommodations with special cushioning systems or holes that allow you to lie face down safely, while providing room for your growing belly and breasts. Or you might lie on your side with the support of pillows and cushions. 

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Feeling stressed? A Swedish massage is the classic go-to for major relaxation. Swedish massage is typically a full-body massage that uses a gentle touch. It’s a good pick for people new to massages. “It can help calm your nervous system. Swedish massage is also a good avenue for encouraging a relaxed emotional state of mind  which can directly impact your muscles.

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A ‘hands on’ treatment technique employed by a therapist which involves the mobilising and manipulation of the bodies soft tissue and myofascial structures. It was originally developed for athletes to prevent and relieve injuries that can manifest after repeated strenuous physical activity or injury. However both athletes and non-athletes can gain physiological and psychological benefits from receiving sports massage therapy.

Sports massage often involves a fast-paced massage, stretching and other approaches, depending upon the sport in which you participate or where your pain is (remember though, you don’t have to be a regular sports athlete to have a sports massage). It can be tailored to be used as a pre-workout stretch and opportunity to warm up the muscles or used as a post-workout massage designed to reduce soreness and increase flexibility. Whilst massage is frequently used to relax muscles, it can also be used as a pre-curser to manipulative treatments of the joints in the spine or the periphery.

A knot in your neck or a tight spot in your back is known as a trigger point. “A trigger point is a tiny muscle spasm or tight spot in the tissue,” In a trigger-point massage, the massage therapist uses focused and direct pressure to target those spots. This increases blood flow to the areas, helping them release. This type of massage can also be helpful for people with chronic pain.