There are many reasons to consider getting massages. You might want sessions on a regular basis just to pamper yourself because it feels good. However, the treatments can have therapeutic benefits as well. There are different types of massages you can take that target your specific needs. Talk to your therapist about the goals of your session so they can recommend the best treatment for you. Here are some options.

Sports Massage

This treatment can be used to help an injury heal, improve range of motion, increase blood flow, and reduce muscle spasms. The treatment session is focused on your area of injury or the muscles you use for the type of sports you play. This type of massage can help you recover from injury as well as help you prevent injuries. It may incorporate techniques from other therapies, such as deep tissue work, stretching, trigger point work, kneading, and stroking.

Lymphatic Therapy

This type of treatment must be done by a therapist trained in the proper technique. The goal of the therapy is to move lymph fluid through your body so it will drain. When lymph stagnates, you'll experience swelling in an arm or leg. The massage is done to get the lymph moving so swelling goes down. Your doctor might recommend this treatment if you're having problems with lymphedema.

Relaxation Massage

This may be the type of treatment you are most familiar with. However, you shouldn't overlook how effective it can be at reducing stress and encouraging relaxation. Your doctor might recommend having these sessions regularly to help you through a stressful period, especially if you have a medical condition that's made worse by stress. The long strokes and gentle kneading cause muscles throughout your body to relax. The muscles release tension and that helps with muscle pain and also with mental stress.

Thai Massage

This treatment may be different from what you've seen before. The therapy is given on a mat on the floor because your body is stretched into different positions. In addition, the therapist may use acupressure and compression techniques rather than stroking and kneading. This type of massage might help with back pain and improve your flexibility.

Deep Tissue Work

Deep tissue work can help with healing from an accident or repetitive motion injury that caused scars or adhesions. The therapist presses on the area to find sore spots. When they find one, the therapist presses deeply and holds pressure for a while. They might use their elbow or a hard tool so the pressure is deep. This can improve circulation, and the extra blood flow can help with tissue healing. The pressure can also break up scar tissue to relieve pain and improve movement.

To learn more about massage, talk with a local clinic.

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