Popular Massage Therapy Treatments
Therapeutic Massage
Often recommended by a health professional as a component of a comprehensive treatment plan, therapeutic massage treats injuries, pain, muscle spasms and stress. It also can assist with decreasing muscle tone and increasing flexibility.
Swedish Massage
Widely used around the world, Swedish massage therapy uses several different types of strokes including a sliding or gliding movement, friction and kneading. The technique has demonstrated effectiveness in decreasing stiffness and pain for sufferers of osteoarthritis.
Myofascial Release
The myofascial technique consists of stretching and releasing bonds between connective tissue fibers and muscles. The overall goal with this is to increase the range of motion and decrease pain. Myofascial release commonly involves the utilization of tension in different directions, often conducted by rolling of the skin.
Deep Tissue Massage
In deep tissue massage, the registered massage therapist works to realign the connective tissue and deep muscle layers. The technique often can provide relief for chronic pain and stiffness in the upper and lower back, neck, legs and shoulders.
Prenatal Massage
Massage provided to a pregnant woman by a professional, registered massage therapist can safely decrease muscle tension, release stress and contribute to overall well-being. Massage therapy can help relieve typical discomforts many pregnant women experience, including headaches, swelling and cramping in legs, backaches and stiff necks.
Sports Massage
Athletes often use sports massage before or after events to lessen fatigue, reduce swelling and muscle tension, improve flexibility and decrease the possibility of injuries. A registered massage therapist can help athletes reduce tension and stress that often builds during strenuous activity.
SCOPE OF PRACTICE
“The practice of Massage Therapy is the assessment of the soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissue and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function, or relieve pain.”
Massage Therapy Act, 1991