Massage 

Massage therapy is a form of Complementary therapy, which includes the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body, such as muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and - in a minor way - joints.  it involves various techniques such as stroking, kneading, rubbing, and tapping, to improve blood circulation, reduce mental and physical stress, relieve pain and promote relaxation and general well-being. 

There are specific types of massage; what I specialise into are Remedial, Sports and Relaxation massage with the addition of cupping therapy - if requested.

Remedial massage is a type of massage therapy that focuses on treating specific musculoskeletal conditions and injuries.

Here's a breakdown:

• Goal: To improve muscle function, reduce pain, and aid in rehabilitation.

• Techniques: Employs a range of techniques such as deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and sports massage.

• Focus: Targets areas of the body experiencing pain or dysfunction, such as:

• Muscle strains and sprains

• Tendonitis

• Ligament injuries

• Back and neck pain

• Chronic pain conditions

Key Characteristics:

• Assessment: Remedial massage therapists conduct a thorough assessment to identify the underlying cause of pain or dysfunction.

• Personalized Treatment: Treatment plans are customized to address individual needs and goals.

• Rehabilitation: May be incorporated as part of a rehabilitation program following an injury.

Relaxation massage is a gentle form of massage therapy that primarily focuses on inducing a state of deep relaxation and reducing stress.

• Key Characteristics:

• Gentle Techniques: Employs slow, rhythmic strokes, gentle kneading, and light pressure.

• Focus on Relaxation: Prioritizes calming the nervous system, reducing anxiety, and promoting a sense of well-being.

• Limited Deep Tissue Work: Unlike deeper massage modalities, it generally avoids deep tissue manipulation.

• Benefits:

• Stress reduction

• Improved sleep

• Reduced muscle tension

• Increased circulation

• Enhanced mood

While relaxation massage is primarily focused on relaxation, it can also provide some musculoskeletal benefits such as improved circulation and reduced muscle tension. 

Sports massage is a type of massage therapy specifically designed to address the physical demands of athletes and active individuals.

• Focus: It aims to enhance athletic performance, prevent injuries, and aid in recovery from strenuous physical activity.

• Techniques: Employs a variety of techniques, including deep tissue massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and stretching, to improve flexibility, reduce muscle soreness, and enhance circulation.

• Application: Can be used before, during, and after athletic events to prepare the body for exertion, reduce muscle tension, and promote faster recovery.

REFERENCES

ANTA: https://www.australiannaturaltherapistsassociation.com.au/explore-natural-therapy-treatments/massage/remedial-therapy/ 

Healthdirect Australia: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/massage-therapy

NCI: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10328622 

Physio.co.uk: https://www.physio.co.uk/sports-injury-physiotherapy/index.php