Types of massage treatment

Reasons for massage can vary, and there are different types of massage that can suit different people. Sometimes it can be confusing when massage has different names and types, and it can be tricky to know what you need. Having trained in a range of styles over the last 20+ years, I tend to use a fusion of different techniques for my relaxation & sports/remedial massage treatments. In this blog I break down some of the different names & types of massage and how they can be of benefit.

1. Relaxation massage

   A relaxation massage is a more gentle, restorative treatment involving gentle, slow techniques to promote relaxation and to calm the nervous system. This type of massage is also sometimes known as Swedish massage or can incorporate different techniques. Some people may want different amounts of pressure and this can sometimes include deep tissue work, depending on what the client finds relaxing.

2. Deep tissue massage

   Working on the body with a greater depth of pressure than a relaxation massage, this is a technique that can be used within a massage or is sometimes used by therapists as a classification for a deeper pressure of massage. Often for either full body or back, neck & shoulder treatments.

3. Sports massage

   Therapists providing a 'sports massage' must hold an additional (or alternative) qualification to therapists offering Swedish/relaxation/deep tissue treatments. Therapists must hold at least a level 3 sports massage qualification that has taught a deeper level of anatomy and physiology, as well as more techniques that enable them to treat injury, aches & pains and to improve posture etc. Whilst these are often aimed at those taking part in sport & exercise, they can also be beneficial for those with postural or repetitive movement issues from other areas of life. Whilst this type of massage has a reputation for being painful, this does not have to be the case. Whilst treating issues can involve some discomfort, a good therapist should be able to work effectively without causing pain.

4. Remedial massage

   Similar to 'sports' massage, the aim of this is to remedy or resolve an issue, whether this is an injury, posture or repetitive movement problem. The therapist should conduct a full and thorough consultation to identify the issue and determine the best way to work with each client.

5. Eastern massage

   Therapists using techniques from across the world, which may include Thai or Thai yoga massage, ayurvedic massage and tui'na. This often takes a more holistic approach than traditional western massage and can include stretch-based techniques, different types of oil or additional tools and techniques.

6. Fusion massage

   This type of massage is often conducted by therapists with a range of different training modalities as they blend techniques from more traditaionaly western training, such as Swedish & Sports massage with Eastern techniques. The therapists can use the most effective approaches from a blend of techniques to work with the individual clients in a therapeutic way.

7. Maintenance massage

   This can take the form of any type of massage but is one designed to keep the body working well in a preventative way. This is often recommended after a course of sports or remedial massage in order to prevent injury, postural issues or overuse symptoms. A regular massage every 4-6 weeks has been shown to be beneficial.

If you are still unsure what type of massage you need just ask - get in touch at charlottelattin.wellbeing@gmail.com

Need to book in - book your relaxation or sport/remedial massage where I tend to use a fusion of techniques visit www.charlottelattin.com