Skip to main content

Different Types of Massage Therapy

By February 7, 2019Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is an effective way to treat the symptoms from a number of ailments and illnesses.  On its own, or combined with other treatment protocols, massage can promote relaxation, healing and stress relief for patients of all ages and walks of life.

There are many different types of massage therapy interventions possible. The ‘style’ or ‘type’ of massage you receive is dependent on the goals decided on by you with your RMT.

Swedish Massage.  This technique is best employed for relaxation and stress relief.  Therapists will employ soothing strokes, kneading and mild to moderate pressure to promote a state of calm and to help you feel your best.  The soothing rhythm of Swedish massage is excellent for clients who are anxious to try massage or who are particularly sensitive to the touch.

Therapeutic Massage.  When patients have a specific complaint, an injury that is irritating them or causing pain, we use therapeutic massage to target the area and provide relief and mobility.  This may be required as a result of a repetitive use injury or be caused by an accident such as whiplash.  Patients may require several massage appointments before their symptoms are managed, but some benefit may be noticed right away.  Therapeutic massage is often accompanied by at home exercise instructions for continued improvement and self-management.

Deep Tissue Massage.  This technique is similar to a Swedish massage, with slower movement and more intense pressure.  Generally speaking we would use deep tissue massage to treat people who respond favourably to a firmer touch. It’s also a good option for people who suffer from anxiety or persistent muscle tension.  Sessions are usually 60 to 90 minutes in length.  While patients may see some immediate improvement, several sessions may be required before the effects of therapy are maximized.

Prenatal Massage.  Expecting mothers can benefit from massage to relieve swelling, reduce aches and pains associated with the changes in body shape and size, help to maintain function and movement and help to alleviate stress and anxiety.  Your therapist will work with you to decide what areas are in need of attention, but most often, we focus on the lower back and legs.  Gentle techniques are used to help soothe sore and tense muscles and to promote relaxation.

Sports Medicine Massage.  Athletes of the amateur and professional variety find massage therapy an effective treatment for preventative therapy as well as relief from strains and injury that are common in sports.  Your therapist may opt to treat a singular area of your body, several areas related to your injury, or you may receive the most benefit from a full body massage.  Strengthening exercises will often be prescribed as well to maximize the effects of treatment and to build muscle to help prevent further injury.

Everyone Can Benefit from Massage Therapy

Massage is an excellent, non-invasive way to treat a number of physical and mental challenges.  Its benefits can span from childhood into old age, and everything in between.  Whether you are an athlete with aches and strains, a busy professional with tension and stress, or a pregnant mother looking for relief from sore muscles, massage therapy can help.   If you’re looking to reap the rewards of massage but aren’t quite sure where to start, speak to one of our RMT’s about your needs and goals.  We will review your history and develop a plan that fits with your comfort level and addresses your concerns.

Our Registered Massage Therapists are trained, experienced and accredited professionals.  Come see us in our friendly clinic and find out what massage therapy can do to help you feel like you again!