Having a massage therapy session with your therapist can be a great way to relax and relieve stress, as well as to get rid of pain. The goal of massage therapy is to manipulate the soft tissues of the body, such as muscles and tendons. This can be done through a number of different techniques, including using the hands, knees, elbows and forearms.
Trigger point massage
Often a part of massage therapy, trigger point therapy is a specific technique that relieves pain. It works by removing waste products and tightness in the muscle.
The process involves applying pressure to a specific spot on the skin. Trigger points are tiny knots of tissue that can cause pain when touched. This type of massage is used to treat chronic and acute musculoskeletal pain.
The most common trigger point is the upper trapezius muscle. This is a very dense muscle, making it a good place for self-massage. It is also very sensitive, so it is easy to access.
It is also important to avoid painful actions when a trigger point is present. This can include bending over or picking up things, but can also include a small bump or scratch.
Another method of reducing trigger point pain is using ice packs to reduce inflammation. Heating pads can also be helpful in easing muscle tension.
Sports massage
Getting a sports massage can help your body recover from an injury, improve your athletic performance, and prevent future injuries. A variety of different techniques are used to get the job done. These methods include soft tissue mobilization, friction, and the other kneading motions.
The most effective stretching techniques are the ones that combine a kneading stroke with a friction stroke. The kneading helps break up scar tissue while the friction helps loosen up the muscles and increase the range of motion around the joint.
Another advanced technique is the tapotement method. The therapist uses both hands to strike the skin. The motions stimulate blood flow away from the deep tissue. The result is a massage that is both effective and fun.
A similar technique is the vibration stroke. The speed of this stroke helps relax the muscles and improve circulation. It can also be a good way to relax the therapist’s joints.
Shiatsu
Using the technique of Shiatsu massage therapy, a therapist gently touches and manipulates the body to improve blood circulation. This is thought to help boost the immune system and reduce muscle pain and stress. In addition, shiatsu may provide emotional relief. It has been found to reduce stress, promote calm sleep and increase serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that helps people feel more relaxed.
During the treatment, a therapist will not touch any areas that have been recently injured or have open wounds. They will also avoid areas that are affected by varicose veins, soreness or inflammation.
Shiatsu is thought to be an effective treatment for pregnant women and for those experiencing menstrual problems, as it stimulates circulation and the secretion of the body’s natural oil. It can also be helpful in relieving the pain of labor.
In addition to increasing circulation, shiatsu massage therapy increases the flow of energy, or Qi, which is thought to control all of the body’s functions. A blocked Qi channel is believed to make the mind weak and susceptible to fatigue.
Reflexology
During reflexology massage therapy, a trained professional uses her hands and feet to apply pressure to specific points of the body. The goal of the therapy is to stimulate healing and enhance blood circulation, which results in quicker regrowth of damaged cells.
Reflexology has been used for thousands of years. The practice is based on ancient Chinese belief that the body has a series of energy zones, each corresponding to a different system. It is believed that these areas help to balance yin and yang.
Reflexology involves applying a moderate to mild amount of pressure to the reflex points on the feet. The therapist may also work on other parts of the foot and legs. This treatment can be up to an hour long.
The therapist will ask questions about the client’s health, diet, and lifestyle. He or she will also use aromatherapy, soft music, and low lights. This helps to relax the patient and encourage the body to heal itself.