What are some Western types of massage? Types of massage in the Western world include Swedish massage, sports massage, neuromuscular massage, and deep tissue massage. The massage is a very popular way for...
The massage is a very popular way for many to experience total relaxation. But when it comes to matters of the body, we all understand how important it is to be specific. While any type of massage would be very beneficial to the recipient, with so much research about massages available, clients are now able to specify the type of massage their body is in need of.
Some of the more commonly known massages available are called Western, or Swedish style massages. Swedish style massages are common because most massage therapist receive initial training in the Swedish massage techniques as part of their licensing and certification process. In addition, massage therapist must continue to take educational courses to maintain their professional certification.
Greg Smith is the Director of Information and Outreach at the Colorado Institute of Massage Therapy. Smith has been practicing massage therapy for the last seven years and also serves as a fitness therapist and personal trainer. Smith said that while many types of massages can be included in the Western family, the four most common types of Western massages include: Swedish, deep tissue, sports and neuromuscular therapy.
"Swedish massage is a more relaxing and energizing massage," he said. "So it would be lighter work typically. There is a massage sometimes called deep tissue massage. That's for muscle damage or injuries such as whiplash, back strain, low back pain, and deep tissue."
"There is sports massage," he added. "It will help to prevent or deal with athletic injuries. Finally there is a massage that specializes in areas of repetitive use. If someone says their fingers are going numb from typing all day that would be called neuromuscular therapy. Neuromuscular links two words: neuro for nerves and muscular for muscles."
Most massage therapy practiced in the United States is based on the Western style of massage. The premise of the Western massage can be identified by is various use of strokes to manipulate soft tissues. Western massage benefits include reduced pain, enhanced circulation and general relaxation.
The deep tissue massage differs as it consists of slower strokes and more pressure. Most experts will advise potential clients to stay away from the deep tissue massage unless otherwise told so by a professional. During a deep tissue massage, the therapist will target deeper muscles groups using more pressure.
The sports massage depends solely on the client. For the most part, the techniques of a sports massage will be very similar to a Swedish massage, but at times, the therapist will have to use certain techniques specifically designed for an athlete. The most important detail for a potential client to know is that each sports therapist should have experience in the field. Also, an athlete who plays basketball might get a different type of sports massage from someone who plays tennis. The neuromuscular therapy is sometimes used in sports massages also. Neuromuscular therapy is sometimes called trigger point therapy.
"We have found a link over the years between nerves and muscles," Smith said. "Tight muscles can cause pain if they stay tight over time. Neuromuscular therapy could work just the low back for an hour, the neck, or the abdominal area."
