Right kind of massage:

Getting a massage has become a popular way to reduce stress and muscle tension. But one size doesn’t fit all when it comes to a massage. There are several different types of massages and it is important to understand the differences among them and the relief each can provide.  Here are some of the common types:

* Craniosacral massage: Treatment focuses on imbalances or blockages in the head, neck and spine areas.

* Deep tissue massage: Targets deep muscle tissue through direct pressure and friction on muscles using heavy strokes.

* Neuromuscular massage: Concentrates on painful areas in muscles. A massage therapist uses deep massage techniques to locate and release tender points in muscles.

* Rolfing: Focuses on the connective tissue that forms a web of support throughout the body. Practitioners often apply pressure in an attempt to realign connective tissues, which they believe become out of alignment by everyday stress.

* Swedish massage: Most common form of massage that concentrates on soft tissues near the surface of your skin. Therapist uses long, smooth strokes and kneading movements along the skin, working all areas of the body.  

* Sports massage: Designed for athletes to focus on the specific muscle groups used in a particular sport. A sports massage therapist might use a combination of Swedish and deep massage to attend to muscle pain or stiffness.

 

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