Massage technique refers to both the act and result of using massage for therapeutic purposes. Today, studies continue to be conducted to understand how massage can best benefit people physically, mentally and emotionally. Massage in Lakewood, CO has been shown to provide health benefits such as temporary relief from pain and stiffness, release of tight muscles and joints, increased circulation, decreased stress levels and anxiety. The following article will focus on four types of therapeutic massage techniques that are commonly used to provide these benefits: Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Sports Massage and Reflexology.
1) Swedish Mass
Swedish massage is the most common form of massage and is best known for being a general relaxation treatment. This type of massage uses five styles of long strokes and kneading. The movement used during Swedish massage helps to increase blood circulation throughout the body, which allows more oxygen and nutrients to reach the muscles and removes waste products from tissues. The pressure applied during this technique may range from light to medium depending on your preference.
2) Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue isn’t as gentle as other forms of massage because it can involve deeper pressures that are targeted into the deeper layers of muscle tissue, tendons and fascia (the protective sheath around muscles). In order to avoid causing discomfort or pain, deep tissue should only be performed by a trained therapist. Using slow and deep strokes, this form of massage applies pressure to the deep layers of muscle tissue as well as the area surrounding muscles and joints to improve mobility and decrease discomfort. This type of massage is best used for chronically tense or contracted areas such as stiff necks and backs.
3) Sports Massage
Sports massages are typically reserved for people who either exercise on a regular basis (athletes) or experience soreness and stiffness due to daily life activities. It’s not necessary for you to be an athlete in order to receive a sports massage; anyone can benefit from receiving one even if they simply spend lots of time sitting at a desk. A sports massage is designed to reduce tension in tired, overused muscles by loosening them up. It also aids the body in removing lactic acid, which is a buildup of waste products that can occur after periods of strenuous exercise. Sports massages are typically given to people who engage in highly active lifestyles or are training for an athletic event.
4) Reflexology
Reflexology involves applying pressure using specific techniques to areas on the hands and feet. These areas are thought to correspond to different parts of the body so applying pressure to these regions may have effects elsewhere in the body as well.
