massage therapist

Deep tissue massage can be used to address certain trouble spots in your body. The massage therapist applies slow, deliberate pressure to the layers of muscles, tissues, or tendons deep beneath your skin. Deep tissue massage can be more therapeutic than other types of massage. It can relieve chronic patterns of tension, and help with injuries like back sprains.

During the massage, you’ll remain fully clothed and sit in a specially designed chair. You’ll straddle the chair so that your chest pushes into the back of the chair, allowing the massage therapist to have access to your back.

One of the immediate benefits of massage is a feeling of deep relaxation and calm. This occurs because massage prompts the release of endorphins – the brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) that produce feelings of wellbeing.

In several small studies involving patients with chronic headaches, researchers found that Thai massage reduced the intensity of both migraine and tension headaches.

Thirty-four soccer players were part of an experiment to test the effects of Thai massage on athletic performance. After receiving Thai massage three times in a 10-day period, the soccer players showed significant improvement in their ability to do sit-and-reach exercises.

The styles used in massage therapy vary from long, smooth strokes, to shorter, percussive ones. Some massage therapists apply oils and lotions to their clients. Others don't. While most massage therapists will have clients in unclothed mode for a massage treatment, others prefer that they be fully clothed. A massage lasts anywhere from 5 to 2 hours.

Cranial sacral therapy is a gentle manipulation of bones in the skull and spine that can improve the flow cerebrospinal fluid. It can also result in deep relaxation.

Insurance sometimes covers massage therapy if you can show it’s being used to treat a medical condition. Sometimes, insurance companies will cover massage therapy if it’s part of chiropractic care.

Myofascial release therapy is another type of bodywork that involves releasing stiffness in the fascia, the connective tissue system that contains each muscle in the body. Your therapist will massage and stretch any areas that feel tense with light pressure.

A brief conversation with your therapist is recommended before starting your session. This will enable you to discuss your expectations and address any concerns.

A massage session may last from 10 to 90 minutes, depending on the type of massage and how much time you have. No matter what kind of massage you choose, you should feel calm and relaxed during and after your massage. Breathe normally throughout your massage.

Muscle knots, while painful, can be treatable. We provide information about your treatment options as well as when to visit a doctor.