4 types of massage to choose from

If you suffer from muscle pain or mobility issues, massage therapy may be able to help. If you want to try massage therapy, but don't know where to begin, the descriptions below will help.

Swedish massage is one of the most widely used massage techniques for relieving stress and loosening tense muscles. Swedish massage therapy is often chosen for total body relaxation, but it also provides other benefits like:

• Increased flexibility
• Improved circulation
• Increase blood oxygen levels
• Fewer toxins in the muscles
• Reduced muscle tension

Swedish massage therapy is characterized by its long sweeping strokes, tapping movements, muscle kneading and deep pressure.

Deep tissue massage is similar to Swedish massage, but the massage therapist uses more pressure to break down painful bands of rigid muscle and connective tissue. This technique helps restore the client's normal mobility and relieve chronic pain. Deep tissue massage therapy focuses on a specific issue like:

• Pain from a repetitive strain injury
• Chronic muscle pain
• Mobility limitations
• Deep muscular tension
• Postural issues

One of the main characteristics of deep tissue massage therapy is the fact that it may cause a level of discomfort during the session. It is sometimes necessary to apply ice to the muscles because stiffness and pain may persist for a day or two after the massage.

Hot stone massage therapy involves the use of heated stones (usually made of basalt) placed on specific points of the body. The smooth, flat stones are also used to massage the muscles. The heat helps release tension so the muscles can be massaged more effectively. A few of the benefits you may experience from a hot stone massage include:

• Improved circulation
• Muscle pain relief
• Relief of arthritis pain
• Reduced anxiety or stress
• Fewer bouts of insomnia
• Alleviated depression symptoms

Many people find the warmth of a hot stone massage to be extremely relaxing. This is a good choice if you prefer a massage technique that utilizes light to moderate pressure.

The Japanese word "shiatsu" describes the type of finger pressure used with this massage technique. This form of Japanese bodywork is based on the theory that illness is a result of unbalanced energy flow in the body. A shiatsu massage therapist applies rhythmic pressure to different areas of the body in order to restore the flow of energy. Shiatsu massage is particularly effective in treating conditions such as:

• Muscle pain
• Stress
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Arthritis pain
• Insomnia

Unlike other types of massage, you remain fully clothed while receiving shiatsu massage therapy.