Massage Therapy Methods

Massage therapy uses pressure to stimulate the muscles and promote healing, increase functioning and help people relax. There are over eighty different techniques that can be used in massage therapy to stimulate the muscles, joints, ligaments, tendons and other body parts. Each of these massage methods can be used to rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit. The following guide explains some of these methods and how they can benefit people that need to relax or seek healing.

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Acupressure Massage Therapy

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This method combines the concepts of acupuncture with pressure to stimulate the qi or flow of energy through the body. The therapy can be used to relieve pain, reduce nausea and promote overall good health. Some researches believe acupressure can even reduce the risk of developing certain diseases and the practice has been endorsed by the World Health Organization, National Institutes of Health and the United Kingdom's National Health Service.

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Bowen Massage

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The Bowen massage techniques uses a gentle rolling movement to relive muscle tension and improve lymphatic flow. The gentle application of pressure makes this method suitable for use on the elderly, newborns and people with sensitive skin.

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Myofascial Release Massage

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Founded by Andrew Taylor Still, myofascial release massage therapists use their knuckles, elbows and small weights to stretch the soft tissues that help support and protect muscles. This method of massage can help elongate the tissues, improve circulation and increase lymphatic drainage.

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Swedish Massage

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One of the most popular massage methods, Swedish massage uses long, flowing strokes to reduce joint stiffness, relieve pain and improve muscle functioning. The method is particularly effective for patients that have osteoarthritis. It may also help stimulate circulation throughout the body.

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Thai Massage

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This method combines the principles of yoga with deep tissue massage. Clients are put in various yoga positions while the practitioner rhythmically presses and stretches the muscles. This method has been practiced in Thailand for centuries and has recently become more popular in the United States and Europe.

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Watsu Massage

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Watsu is a type of massage that combines hydrotherapy with shiatsu, a Japanese practice that uses stretches and the application of pressure to help people cope with pain, stress, anxiety and depression. During a watsu session, clients are submerged in a pool of lukewarm water which enables the practitioner to move the body in ways that are difficult on a dry surface.

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Reflexology Massage

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This type of alternative medicine applies pressure to the limbs, hands or ears in an effort to relax the body and treat various conditions. The practice is founded on the belief that reflexes in the targeted areas are related to the body's organs and glands. By applying pressure on these areas, practitioners can improve functioning and harness energy to remedy problems.

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Hilot Massage

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This traditional Philippine technique uses pressure to reset dislocated or sprained joints, reduce pain and treat various musculoskeletal problems. The practice is also used to help relax infants and their mothers in the days following birth. Some hilot practitioners also use herbs and banana leaves to help patients relax.

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