When the topic of massage therapy is brought up, 2 main forms of massage typically come to mind. These 2 very common techniques of massage therapy are: Swedish massage and deep tissue massage. Unquestionably, you’ve heard of both these types of massage, but might not know the subtle differences between them. This should act as a short explanation of each and will most likely clear up some misunderstandings.
Many people think of Swedish massage and deep tissue massage as being very like each other, but in the real world, these 2 forms of massage therapy are actually quite different.
Swedish massage is the hands-down most common form of massage offered and if you have ever had a massage from a Registered Massage Therapist, this was most likely the type of massage you had. Swedish massage involves a sequence of long gliding strokes, using a firm pressure to the muscles. When using this technique, the massage therapist will also knead and tap the muscles. Swedish massage is very effective in relieving muscle tension, improving blood flow and improving flexibility.
Additionally, this increased flow of blood increases the flow of oxygen to your muscles helping flush toxins out more effectively. This is particularly effective at shortening recovery time for muscle strains, by flushing lactic acid and other toxins and metabolic wastes from the muscle tissue.
Deep tissue massage, as its name suggests, benefits for the deeper tissue structure of the muscles and connecting tissues (fascia). Many of the methods used with Swedish massage are also utilized when your massage therapist performs a deep tissue massage, but are utilized in a more focused fashion. Usually, a deep tissue massage, focuses more on releasing lingering muscle tension, muscle knots or adhesions.
Deep tissue massage is often prescribed by doctors to treat conditions such as: whiplash, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis and numerous sports injuries.
Both types of massage therapy may incorporate the utilization of oils or lotions. Swedish massage often includes the utilization of certain essential oils for their aromatherapy properties. With deep tissue massage, your massage therapist will sometimes choose to not use oil when performing deep work as this can occasionally facilitate the best results.
Many people think of Swedish massage and deep tissue massage as being very like each other, but in the real world, these 2 forms of massage therapy are actually quite different.
Swedish massage is the hands-down most common form of massage offered and if you have ever had a massage from a Registered Massage Therapist, this was most likely the type of massage you had. Swedish massage involves a sequence of long gliding strokes, using a firm pressure to the muscles. When using this technique, the massage therapist will also knead and tap the muscles. Swedish massage is very effective in relieving muscle tension, improving blood flow and improving flexibility.
Additionally, this increased flow of blood increases the flow of oxygen to your muscles helping flush toxins out more effectively. This is particularly effective at shortening recovery time for muscle strains, by flushing lactic acid and other toxins and metabolic wastes from the muscle tissue.
Deep tissue massage, as its name suggests, benefits for the deeper tissue structure of the muscles and connecting tissues (fascia). Many of the methods used with Swedish massage are also utilized when your massage therapist performs a deep tissue massage, but are utilized in a more focused fashion. Usually, a deep tissue massage, focuses more on releasing lingering muscle tension, muscle knots or adhesions.
Deep tissue massage is often prescribed by doctors to treat conditions such as: whiplash, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis and numerous sports injuries.
Both types of massage therapy may incorporate the utilization of oils or lotions. Swedish massage often includes the utilization of certain essential oils for their aromatherapy properties. With deep tissue massage, your massage therapist will sometimes choose to not use oil when performing deep work as this can occasionally facilitate the best results.