deep tissue massage

Should you be sore after a Thai massage?

Ancient practices and a growing body of medical research suggest that massaging pressure points on your feet can heal conditions on different parts of…

Talking to your therapist may be a good idea before you begin your session. It will help you communicate your expectations, and answer any questions.

According to the American Massage Therapy Association, in 2018, approximately 19% of Americans had some form of massage.. And, they have a wide range of reasons for doing so. More and more people -- especially baby boomers -- recognize the health benefits of massage. They choose from among many massage styles to get relief from symptoms or to heal injuries, to help with certain health conditions, and to promote overall wellness.

A 2018 study found that self-shiatsu significantly improved sleep quality and daytime fatigue in a group of young athletes with sports-related concussions.

There are some instances where massage and myotherapy may not be recommended, or a GP or specialist referral should be obtained, including (but not limited to):

Prostatic massage was the first treatment for ED before prescription medication. It is still used by some men today, along with other treatments. Learn...

massage locations

massage locations

Make sure your massage therapists have the right training and are licensed. You can check their credentials.

Massage therapy can sometimes be covered by insurance if it is used to treat a specific medical condition. Some insurance companies will cover massage therapy as part of chiropractic care.

Massage has been used for thousands of years. You can choose from over 80 massage therapies that offer a variety of pressures, movements and techniques. All of these involve manipulating soft tissues and muscles with your hands and fingers. Sometimes even forearms and elbows are used.

massage in spa

Massage is generally considered part of integrative medicine. It's increasingly being offered along with standard treatment for a wide range of medical conditions and situations.

For this kind of massage, the therapist places warmed stones on certain areas of the body, such as acupressure points. The stones may be used as massage tools or be temporarily left in place. Used along with other massage techniques, hot stones can be quite soothing and relaxing as they transmit heat deep into the body.

Hot stone massage is a type of massage therapy. It offers a number of health benefits, in addition to relieving muscle tension and pain. Learn more.

massage in spa
Swedish massage

Swedish massage

It can help release muscle knots, and it’s also a good choice for when you want to fully relax during a massage.

Massage could be a way to improve your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Try different types and massage providers to find the best one for you.

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese method of treating back pain. Find out more about how it works.

massage therapist

A sports massage can be done as a full-body massage or on specific parts of the body that need the most attention. Deep pressure may be alternated with soothing strokes, depending on your needs.

Either you can do lymphatic drainage massage yourself or seek professional help. Before trying it, talk to your doctor.

A chair massage is best for people who want a quick massage that focuses on the neck, shoulders, and back.

Should you be sore after a Thai massage?
massage in spa
What is the 7 types of massage?

Deep tissue massage is ideal for treating certain "trouble spots", which are painful and stiff in your body. Massage therapists use slow, deliberate strokes to apply pressure to layers of muscles, tendon, and other tissues beneath your skin. Deep tissue massage is less rhythmic than other types, but it can be very therapeutic. It may help with chronic tension patterns and muscle injuries such as back strain.

According to 2014 research, lymphatic drainage massage was more effective at improving the quality of life of fibromyalgia patients compared with connective tissue massage.

Muscle knots can be very painful, but they can be treated. We discuss your options and when to see a physician.

What is the 7 types of massage?