What are the different styles of massage? Whats best for me?

These days there are a lot of different types, therapists and opinions out there as to what is the best style of massage. Here is an informative summary of the tyes of massage techniques offered at White Therapies, happy kneading!

DEEP TISSUE/REMEDIAL

This type of massage goes beyond the surface of the skin and underlying soft tissue to deep areas of the muscle and right to the “belly” of the muscle. As the name suggests, “deep” is the key word here. This type of massage also involves the manipulation of the fascia. Fascia is like a web, that runs through the entire body. This connective tissue, when traumatized, inflamed or restricted can create a great deal of pain and restrict motion of the body.Release of toxins, opening and balancing the fascia and release of ligaments and tendons are all taken into consideration when using this technique. Deep slow strokes using the hands, palms, fingers and elbow can cause some tenderness and soreness the day following a massage using deep tissue massage.

Great for: people who have body awareness, excecise regularly and have a moderate to high pain threshold

Not for: relaxation, first time to massage, low pain threshold.

MYOFASCIAL RELEASE THERAPY John F. Barnes P.T.

This type of therapy treats the fascial system using gentle pressure application where fascial restrictions are found on the body. This therapy is used to treat trauma, restriction of motion or inflamed pressure that influence a fascial damaged area and produces pain and discomfort that might be found in back pain, fibromyalgia , TMJ, restricted motion, spasm and much more.

Great for: chronic injuries, rehabilitation

Not for: relaxation, first time to massage, low pain threshold.

SPORTS MASSAGE

Sports massage is used as a preventive medicine for many athletes before, during and after sporting events. A combination of techniques such as Swedish massage, Shiatsu, Trigger point and Relaxation before an athletic event can prepare the athlete for increased performance. During events to keep the muscles loosened and warmed up to reduce injuries and after a hard workout to rid the body of stress, relieve fatigue and remove toxins and byproducts the body produces in strenuous activity. Massage can make the training and body building experience much more effective.

Great for: active persons looking for more recovery from specific stresses, pre and post event 

Not for: relaxation, first time massage, pregnant patients

SWEDISH MASSAGE

Probably the most popular massage technique combines several techniques including kneading, rolling, effleurage, petrissage, friction, percussive and taping strokes to aid in stress and tension reduction, improve circulation and blood flow, remove toxic wastes, tone muscles and more. All basics strokes flow toward the heart while circulation increases without increasing pulse rate. Many modalities blend well with Swedish Massage.

Great for: relaxation, first time clients, stress relief

Not for: clients looking for deep tissue or a hard massage