Massage Therapy and Its Common Forms

Massage therapy is considered as an alternative form of treatment for muscle aches and sports injuries. It is also used to rehabilitate other kinds of accidental injuries and relive pain. Most use it to reduce stress and relax the body. According to studies, it can reduce a person's anxiety; it can even improve the person's heart rate and blood pressure. There are many benefits that can be gained from a session of massage therapy which is why many people use it today as a form to relax and for recreation.

Massage therapy is the rubbing, soothing and manipulating of the muscles in the back, legs, arms and other parts of the body. Repeated motion, tapping and kneading is done to completely relieve the tension and aches in the body. Vessels, organs and joints can also be subjected to a massage therapy to reduce pain. Today, there are many types of these therapies available; a person just has to pick which technique is suitable to his or her needs.

Massage therapy has a long history and most countries have their own variation and technique. The Balinese variation that originated from Bali is considered as the gentlest technique as it aims to relax and calm the client. It uses aromatherapy oils and is said to improve the blood and oxygen circulation in the body. On the other hand, the deep tissue massage aims to rehabilitate injured muscles and joints. It uses deep pressure to reduce muscle injuries and aches in the connecting tissues, although aches and muscles pains can be felt after a session. Remedial massage is also applied to those who are recuperating from an injury as it stretches the injured muscles to achieve its original elasticity.

The most common of the therapies offered in recreational establishments like spa's and resorts are the Swedish and Shiatsu massage. Both use stroking, stretching and kneading to reduce muscle pain and stress. The Swedish technique is found to be an effective treatment to osteoarthritis as it reduces joint pains and stiffness. It is also considered as the classic massage in other countries. On the other hand, Shiatsu is a Japanese technique that is proven to improve blood circulation and relax the muscles. It is a massage that aids general wellness in the body. There are other massage therapies to choose from; however it should be noted that those who have blood clots, fractures and weakened bones should avoid the therapy as it can worsen their condition.