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Tired and overworked muscles need special care. A massage helps to relieve fluid built up in the tissue, relaxing the tense muscles and easing any pain you may have. Additionally, the action helps to encourage your body to produce endorphins, a natural pain reliever. In order to get the best treatment for your sore muscles, you need to know what your therapy options are.
Swedish
One of the most common types of massage is Swedish. This technique uses light and vigorous movements. The therapist will use a combination of five basic strokes: the effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, friction, and shaking. This technique is best used to help reduce pain, improve knee function in patients suffering from osteoarthritis, and reduce joint stiffness. Some patients that suffer from lower back pain experience relief for as long as fifteen weeks.
Stone
The stone technique utilizes smooth stones to apply pressure and heat to the body. The stones can be cold, but more commonly they are water heated. These disks are placed along the back to heat the area and penetrate the muscles, helping them relax. The hot stones can also be coated in oil, which helps the rock slide smoothly over the skin and assists the therapist in delivering various strokes.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is considered a type of alternative medicine. This technique consists of stretches, strokes, and finger and palm pressure on certain areas of the body. The idea is that the pressure helps the muscles relax, freeing the patient from pain. While it is a popular type of massage, there has been no data to suggest it is effective for any known medical conditions.
Deep Tissue
With deep tissue techniques, the therapist focuses on realigning layers of connective tissue and muscle. If you suffer from chronic aches and pain such as in the lower back or neck, it is a useful solution. The technique works by breaking down adhesions formed in the muscles after an injury or due to chronic tension. In order to break down the adhesions and reach the deep musculature, the muscles must be relaxed. You may feel pain or discomfort at points throughout the procedure.
Prenatal
Expectant mothers often feel discomfort during their pregnancy. Prenatal treatment can help reduce the stress a mother feels during this time. It also helps to increase blood circulation and relieve anxiety or depression caused by hormonal changes. Therapists know the best position for you to lie in during the treatment and will often utilize small pillows to help alleviate strain on your back or hips during the massage. Mothers should be at least in their second trimester before scheduling this type of treatment.
A massage can help relieve tension that is built up in your muscles. Those who suffer from chronic pain can benefit from regular appointments, even if it is only for half an hour. If you are new to this type of therapy, talk to your masseuse before your appointment to see which method would best suit you and your situation.
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