What Are the Different Types of Massage Therapy?

Most people are familiar with what is referred to as Swedish Massage Therapy. Swedish Massage techniques are those that involve the manipulation of soft tissue such as muscles, tendons and connective tissue using lotion. This type of massage is ideal for treating sprains, strains, promoting relaxation and reducing pain.

However, massage therapy is not limited to using Swedish massage techniques. Other types of massage include Cranial Sacral, Lymphatic therapy and myofascial release techniques. These types of techniques differ significantly in how they are applied as well as what tissue(s) are effected.

Depending upon what concerns you may have, a therapist may use a variety of techniques and styles of massage. For example, if you suffer from inflammation related to injury or sinus congestion your therapist may use lymphatic therapy to alleviate the symptoms associated with these conditions. Traditionally lymphatic therapy involves light yet brisk movements to encourage the flow of lymph.

Cranial Sacral Techniques involve palpating the cranial pulse and assessing the positioning of the cranial bones. Through gentle manipulation, imbalances are corrected. This type of treatment is ideal for those who suffer from headaches.

Myofascial Release Techniques typically are used where restrictions in range of motion exist. This technique is done without the use of lotion and aids in the manipulation of fascia which is a connective tissue that is found between the muscle and skin. Although there is also a deeper layer of fascia - it is generally the superficial layer of fascia that is worked on. This treatment is ideal for those who are athletic as well as those who suffer pain associated with postural imbalances.

Want to know more about how different techniques can help you? Go to my contact page or call me for a free 15 minute consultation.