Massage Therapy 101

Although massage therapy was once considered a luxury, today it is widely recognized as a highly effective treatment for many acute and chronic conditions.

In this article, we’ll look at different types of massage therapy, the benefits of massage, and what to expect during your first appointment.

What is Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy uses touch and pressure to manipulate the muscles and other soft tissues of the body to relieve pain, decrease stress, increase relaxation, and encourage overall wellness.

Massage is a general term that ranges from light stroking to deep pressure, and there are many different types of massage in which various techniques are applied.

Swedish massage is one of the most common forms of massage therapy. A registered massage therapist uses long strokes, rhythmic tapping, circular movements, and vibrations to release muscle tension and promote relaxation during this treatment.

Sports massage is similar to Swedish massage but modified to meet the needs of athletes of all levels. This type of massage therapy takes into account the effects of certain actions on specific muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints and can help prevent injuries and improve recovery times.

Trigger point massage targets areas of muscle tightness that form due to injury or overuse. Trigger points are areas in the muscle or connective tissue that are painful when pressed and can also cause pain in a referred pattern that radiates throughout the muscle. This treatment combines Swedish massage and deep tissue massage techniques to apply a range of pressure levels to release the trigger points.

Deep tissue massage uses slow, deep strokes and sustained pressure to target the inner layers of muscle and connective tissue.

Lymphatic drainage is a specialized massage that focuses on the lymphatic system. This treatment uses gentle manipulation to relieve painful swelling in the arms and legs caused by a blockage in the lymphatic system.

Benefits of Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is considered a beneficial treatment for numerous physical and psychological conditions. One of the most direct benefits of massage is an immediate sense of calm and relaxation, thanks to the release of endorphins that create feelings of happiness.

Stress relief due to a reduction in stress hormones is another benefit of massage. This treatment is often used to help people cope with pain and muscle tension from injury or illnesses. Other benefits include:

•    improving circulation

•    enhancing immune function

•    lowering heart rate and blood pressure

•    stimulating the lymphatic system

•    increasing joint mobility and flexibility

•    heightening mental alertness

Conditions that may improve due to the benefits of massage include:

•    digestive disorders

•    heart disease

•    fibromyalgia

•    insomnia

•    anxiety

What to Expect During Your First Appointment

Before your massage therapy session begins, your registered massage therapist will review your medical history form and your symptoms and expectations for the massage. After discussing your treatment, the therapist will leave the room and allow you to undress, get on the treatment table, and cover yourself with a sheet. You have the option to keep on any item of clothing you wish.

The therapist will knock before re-entering, and your treatment will begin. Some people like to chit-chat during their treatment sessions while others prefer to relax and lie quietly; it’s entirely up to you.

It is important, however, to communicate during the massage. The therapist should ask if you are comfortable with the pressure and techniques they are using. Let them know if you like or dislike anything in particular.

Book a Massage Today!

At Atlantic Chiropractic in Bedford, NS, our highly trained and experienced massage therapists will design a treatment specially made for you based on your history, health condition, lifestyle, and health goals. For more information, call 902-407-6070 or contact us online .