Massage Therapy

Massage is one of the oldest forms of alternative therapies that has proved to be beneficial in many ways. A massage is a series of strokes and techniques combined with the proper pressure to improve mental and physical health conditions and wellbeing. A person notices significant changes within the first 10 minutes of the session. It is one of the best forms of relaxation and helps in chronic pain management. Different parts of the world have different forms of massage therapies.

What is massage therapy?

A massage is a combination of different techniques like pressing, tapping, kneading, and stroking the body or specific parts of the body. It helps to relax the person physically and mentally. The specialist focuses on applying a little pressure on acupuncture points, soft tissues, and the muscles either in a vigorous or gentle and soft manner.

It can be done alone or combined with other alternative techniques and therapies. The massage therapist may use creams and oils for wet massage. In the case of a dry massage, the therapist may use powder or just the body’s pressure points.

Different types of massage therapies

Over the years, many types of massage therapies have become popular. While the method or technique of massage may differ from one therapy to another, the result always stays the same. The massage duration can range from 10 mins to 90 mins depending on the type of massage or treatment. Let us look at some of the most popular forms of massage therapy.

Swedish Massage Therapy

Known as a slow-paced massage, the Swedish massage is known for its various mental and physical benefits. This massage helps increase the feel-good hormones like dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin during the session. It has a similar effect to meditation and exercise.

It also helps in reducing the stress hormone called cortisol that is released by the adrenal glands.

Swedish massage is known to be a gentle therapy that is effective for people with anxiety and stress issues and provides overall relaxation.

Thai Massage

Also known as Thai Yoga, the Thai massage is not done on a massage table but on a padded floor. This massage is a blend of various body stretches to increase flexibility and reduce tension and stress. It also helps to reduce

  • Pain
  • Anxiety
  • Muscle tension
  • Disability

Shiatsu massage therapy

Also known as finger pressure therapy, Shiatsu is a Japanese-style massage. The specialist uses acupressure points in a rhythmic sequence in this therapy. Shiatsu works on the same concept of acupuncture and acupressure.

Medical Massage Therapy

Medical massage therapy is a specialized therapy that helps to provide relief on targeted symptoms for certain medical conditions. This therapy targets a specific area like the neck or back. It is also recommended as an alternative form of treatment for people diagnosed with conditions like

  • Chronic headache
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Cancer
  • Back Pain

Hot Stone Massage Therapy

Known as hands-on therapy, hot stone massage therapy is another effective and traditional form of massage therapy. In this massage practice, the practitioner uses specialized and smooth stones heated and placed on the body. This is primarily done in areas like

  • Spine
  • Palms
  • Feet
  • Abdomen
  • Legs
    The warm stones help increase blood circulation, soothe and relax the muscles, and a light-pressure massage. This therapy also helps people who are on dialysis.

Foot massage therapy

Foot massage therapy is a special therapy that involves massaging the soft tissue and muscles of the foot. This massage helps in pain reduction and improves blood circulation. A foot massage benefits in many ways and help people suffering with

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Pain
  • Sleep
  • Fatigue

Who should not opt for massage therapy?

Massage therapy is generally beneficial for everyone. However, in some cases, certain precautionary measures have to be taken. Nonetheless, a massage may not be advisable or recommended for people who are

  • Undergoing cancer treatment
  • Suffering from chronic weakness
  • Prone to or presently have fractures
  • People with heart problems
  • Patients diagnosed with arthritis
  • Breastfeeding or pregnant

Precautionary measures and things to keep in mind

  • If you have cancer, it is advisable to opt for gentle and not deep tissue massage. It is also advisable to speak to your doctor before opting for any massage.
  • People undergoing radiotherapy should avoid taking a massage especially bruised, bleeding, or broken areas.
  • Lymphoedema patients should avoid getting their legs or arms massaged if there is swelling. It is advisable to opt for Manual Lymphatic Drainage or MLD massage therapy.
  • If you have just eaten, it is advisable to wait for at least one hour before taking a massage.