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Massage Therapy: 5 Types of Massage Techniques
Massage Therapy: 5 Types of Massage Techniques
Are you considering attending a massage therapy school? If so, the first step in your journey toward a rewarding massage therapy career is to learn more about exactly what this healing art entails, and some of the most popular types of massage techniques that are currently being used to soothe, relax, and relieve pain.
The number one goal of massage is to manipulate soft tissue. This is done for a variety of purposes—to relieve sinus pressure, treat muscle pain, enhance circulation, and much more. Massage techniques can be performed on a specific part of the body, or the entire body, depending on the desired outcome of the treatment.
As one of the most popular programs offered by natural health schools, massage therapy is also considered to be one of the oldest forms of medical care, dating back to 2700 BC. Massage therapy was practiced in ancient Greek, Roman, Indian, and Chinese cultures. There are even Egyptian hieroglyphics that illustrate kings receiving massages. Swedish massage was first introduced to Western culture during the 19th century. Since that time, many more massage techniques have evolved in the Western world. Here is an overview of some of the most popular ones:
Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage serves two therapeutic purposes. The first is to apply heat, which helps to relax tight muscles. The second purpose is to use the hardness of the stones to apply firm, steady pressure to a patient's problem areas, without causing excess strain on the massage therapist. The stones are generally heated in water, and vary in shape and size, depending on the goal of the massage.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage techniques are generally more focused, concentrating on a specific joint or muscle. The massage therapist will slowly ease into the deeper layers of the soft tissue, as going too deep too quickly can actually cause more harm than good. The masseuse can use a combination of fingers, knuckles, elbows, and even heels during the deep tissue massage.
Shiatsu Massage
Shiatsu massage techniques evolved from Japanese massage therapy traditions. The therapist uses only his/her fingers and palms to correct the body's imbalances. Focus is placed on the same energy or pressure points that are used in acupressure. Shiatsu massage also involves stretching of the body, as well as deep breathing.
Sports Massage
Many athletes receive sports massage, whether they are injured or not. This form of treatment is used to prevent and heal injuries, improve performance, reduce pain, and more. Sports massage procedures are very similar to other therapeutic massage techniques, with the main differences being increased depth, pressure, and friction.
Infant Massage
Infant massage therapy is very gentle, flowing, and soothing. It involves very soft rubbing and manipulation, usually applied to the baby's entire body. Massage therapists can either personally perform infant massage, or teach parents the necessary skills to perform it themselves. There are many benefits to infant massage techniques, as they can promote closeness between babies and parents, encourage relaxation and deeper sleep, improve circulation, aid digestion, and ease gas pains.
Now that you know more about some of today's most popular massage techniques—whether a certain area has piqued your interest, or you find the whole field fascinating—your next step is to find the right massage therapy school and program to fit your career goals. Begin today by browsing through this guide to available massage therapy schools!
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