Therapeutic massage is a form of complementary and alternative medicine that targets muscle tension. The many physical benefits can reduce pain, help you feel relaxed, and range anywhere from regular massage with light pressure to deep tissue massage. Massage therapy can treat sports injury and a range of health problems and medical conditions. Often rhythmic pressure is applied to soft tissue for health of muscles. Massage can help in alleviating symptoms of cancer by moving lymph fluids and boosting the immune system. It’s great for overall well being, depression, anxiety, to improve sleep, and is a great body treatment for injury and wellness. Massage techniques can improve blood pressure, heal soft tissue problems. If you have a chronic health condition such as arthritis or fibromyalgia, massage therapy can be a great treatment. It can range from gentle massage to deep pressure

Types of Massage

There are many different styles of massage. From trigger point therapy to myofascial release, Swedish massage to deep tissue massage, sports massage to ashiatsu massage, Thai massage to reflexology, acupressure, aromatherapy massage using essential oils, to specially designed chair massage, shiatsu massage to hot stone massage, shiatsu to lymphatic drainage massage there are many types of massage and massage techniques that can be used to provide effective massage therapy. Often a great complementary to physical therapy and integrative medicine.

Swedish Massage

Swedish massage can help by using rhythmic pressure techniques to improve overall well being. It’s main benefit is its ability to improve mood, health problems and alleviate depression. This makes it a great complementary and alternative medicine to cancer treatment.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage is one of the best modalities for low back pain. It can improve overall health by improving posture and tissue alignment. It’s great for chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia or arthritis.

Sports Massage

Sports massage is a great modality for athletic health and injury. It can improve performance and help muscle tension and recovery.

Shiatsu Massage

Shiatsu massage is one of the most beneficial modalities for low back pain as it can improve the mobility of soft tissue health by stretching and training the tissue to melt into relaxation.

Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy massage uses essential oils to aid in relaxation and certain oils can even relieve pain.

Lymphatic drainage massage

Lymphatic drainage improves health by boosting the immune system and focusing on the movement of white blood cells through the body, making it a great complement to cancer treatment.

What Is The Purpose of Massage Therapy?

Massage therapists can calm both the body and mind. By transitioning from the hectic rush of daily life to a more peaceful state, massage therapy can soothe tension and alleviate stress, allowing you to be your most optimal self. Consistent massage therapy treatment can help to reestablish balance and harmony. Furthermore, some other advantages are that it can diminish feelings of anxiety and depression, while also strengthening the immune system.

What Happens During Massage Therapy?

 First, you‘ll discuss your goals and needs with your massage therapist, often mentioning past injuries, main areas of tension and discomfort. Then, they‘ll use different types of massage such as Swedish massage techniques, such as kneading, rubbing, and applying pressure, to work on your muscles, break up tension in soft tissues and promote relaxation. Additionally, they‘ll use oils or lotions to make it a more pleasant experience. Afterwards, hopefully they are giving you some helpful tips and tricks that you can take home with you to have an at home care plan.

What Should You Not Do During a Massage?

Well first off, it‘s important to remember that a massage is a time for relaxation, so it‘s important to not do anything that would disrupt the atmosphere of relaxation. To that end, it‘s important to not talk excessively during a massage as you will get more benefit from the work, and your therapist will be able to focus on what they are doing a bit better. Also, you should avoid making sudden movements that could throw off the massage therapist‘s rhythm and flow during the session. Furthermore, it‘s important to not put any pressure on the massage therapist to increase the intensity of treatment beyond their level of comfort or to the point that it causes your pain, as it’s a synergistic experience of empathy and intuition. All in all, being respectful of your massage therapist, showing up on time, being respectful of the  environment will ensure that you get the most out of your massage session at IMMERSE Modern Massage.

How Often Should You Get Massage?

Well, that really depends on what is happening in your body! Generally, it‘s a good idea to get a massage at least once a month to keep your muscles healthy and to reduce stress. However, if you‘re dealing with chronic pain or other health concerns, more frequent deep tissue massage, usually once per week until the pain subsides is recommended. If you have low back pain, focusing on certain points can greatly improve symptoms of stress. Swedish massage is generally better for general wellness, whereas sports massage therapists techniques can be an effective treatment improve symptoms of soft tissue injury. Additionally, if you‘re an athlete or someone who‘s very active, weekly sports massages may help you stay in top condition, especially in preparation for an event. If you have cancer, you should talk to your doctor before receiving massage. Of course, you should always consult with licensed massage therapists to determine what‘s best for you.

What Happens To Your Body After A Massage?

After a massage treatment, your physiology experiences a variety of positive health effects. First, your circulation is improved, and your muscles are better able to send oxygen and nutrients to all parts of your body. Lower blood pressure followed by stress reduction and pain relief, this form of manual therapy leaves the receiver with improved circulation. Also, your immune system is stimulated, helping to flush away waste, toxins, to relieve pain and relieve stress. Additionally, your body releases endorphins, giving you a sense of peace and relaxation. Moreover, your range of motion is typically increased, increasing your mobility and knots and tension that cause pain in your focus areas are usually eased. Finally most people experience an increase in sleep quality, leaving you feeling more alert and refreshed the next day. All in all, a massage can leave your body feeling reinvigorated and ready to take on the world!

Is Massage Therapy Painful?

No, massage therapy is not suppose to be painful! In fact, it‘s quite the opposite. It can be quite soothing and relaxing. Transitioning from one area of the body to another, the massage therapist uses light, gentle strokes that are both calming and therapeutic. Additionally, your IMMERSE massage therapist should always check in with you to make sure you‘re comfortable during the massage, and adjust pressure accordingly. You can expect to feel some pressure, but shouldn’t ever experience pain. Ultimately, massage therapy is a great way to reduce stress, ease muscle tension, and promote overall wellbeing!

The American Massage Therapy Association has provided systematic review and meta analysis of labor statistics. They have also carried out randomized controlled trials using a control group for double blind studies around massage. You can check out the American Massage Therapy Association website here.