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Massage therapy is one of the oldest forms of physiotherapy and has only lasted through the ages because of its proven benefits in practice. This article will discuss massage therapy, its methods, and the benefits of undergoing it at Cambie Physiotherapy in New Westminster, BC.
Table of Contents
What is Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy involves the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body. Massage therapists use their hands and other equipment to rub, knead, press, and apply pressure to ease muscle tension, reduce stress, relieve pain, promote relaxation, and improve overall well-being.
New Westminster massage therapy causes physiological changes and mechanical responses contributing to the effects seen after a session. Firstly, massage stimulates the production of some “feel-good” hormones that cause a decrease in the production of stress hormones, a reduction in blood pressure, and relaxation of the muscles. Furthermore, physically manipulating the body’s soft tissues during massage also increases blood circulation, benefitting the body in numerous ways.
Massage therapy has existed for thousands of years in different cultures, mainly as a tool for relaxation. However, it is a part of integrative medicine in today’s world. There are several types of massage, using different techniques and equipment to achieve unique goals. Let’s discuss these next.
Types of Massage Commonly Used in Physiotherapy in New Westminster
Massage therapy techniques vary and aim to achieve different purposes. Some of the most common types of massage include:
Swedish Massage
This massage is the most common type of massage technique available. It adopts a method that employs long flowing strokes in the direction of the heart, kneading, vibration, tapping, deep, circular movements, and passive joint movement techniques on the outermost muscle layers. During the massage session, massage oil or lotion is applied to the skin to protect it from friction.
Swedish massage is a full-body massage that has a general focus. It is a perfect option for people trying out massage for the first time and seeking relaxation because it provides an all-round experience. Swedish massage uses massage techniques such as effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, friction, and vibration to provide relaxation and promote healing. A Swedish massage session typically lasts for about 60 to 90 minutes.
Swedish massage has a lot of physical and mental benefits. It reduces symptoms of mental conditions such as depression and anxiety. It also relieves stress and pain, improves circulation, and improves your range of motion.
Deep Tissue Massage
Unlike the Swedish massage, a deep tissue massage focuses on the deep layers of muscle and connective tissues. A deep tissue massage is an intense form of massage therapy that applies slow, deliberate strokes and deep pressure to deep muscles, tendons, and tissues under the skin. It targets stiff and painful areas in the body and is suitable for soreness, muscle tightness, muscle imbalance, and chronic pain.
Deep tissue massage suits people recovering from (sports) injury, repetitive strain, postural problems, etc. It also breaks up scar tissues that try to form after injury. A deep tissue massage may last for about 60-90 minutes. It is so intense that people who receive the massage may be sore for about a day or two afterward. Benefits of deep tissue massage include (back) pain relief, faster recovery from injury, reduced blood pressure, improved health during pregnancy, etc.
Sports Massage
Sports massage caters to people who are often involved in physical activity. Both professional athletes and non-athletes can benefit from sports massage. It is preventive and remedial as it focuses on treating and preventing injury. Sports massage also aims to enhance athletic performance, reduce muscle pain, and improve the overall range of motion. It may be performed on the entire body or focus on a specific part.
A sports massage employs several techniques. Its benefits include increased flexibility, reduced anxiety, pain relief, faster healing, etc.
Other types of massage include aromatherapy, hot stone, shiatsu, reflexology, trigger point, myofascial release, and Thai massage.
What is The Most Used Type of Massage in Physical Therapy?
Several factors affect the type of massage a physiotherapist may decide to use. However, Swedish massage is the most used type of technique in physical therapy. The reason for this is not far-fetched. A Swedish massage is the most inclusive type of massage that encompasses most of the benefits that massage has to offer. Unlike other types of massage, Swedish massage does not focus on a particular body part. It caters to the needs of all parts of the body. It is perfect for people who want to try massage for the first time but are in a dilemma as to which type of massage they should try. Swedish massage offers several benefits and an all-round experience.
Factors that the type of massage that a healthcare professional offers include the therapist’s assessment and diagnosis, the patient’s needs and preferences, cost, accessibility, recommendations, etc.
Conclusion
Massage is a hands-on technique that physiotherapists use to relieve pain and offer several other benefits to patients. There are several types of massage techniques available. These techniques differ based on their functions and the aim they are used to achieve. Whether you need a massage for relaxation or other specific needs, you should visit Cambie Physiotherapy for the best massage that suits your needs.
