Types of Massage Treatment
Swedish massage
Swedish massage is most likely what someone thinks of when they think of massage.
Swedish massage was developed by a Dutchman who named all the stroke techniques in French! It is characterized by five different strokes: effleurage (long, broad strokes with an open palm), petrissage (kneading), tapotement (rhythmic tapping), friction (cross fiber or with the fibers) and vibration/shaking.
It is the foundation of all massage. In massage, we work on two principles: broad to specific, and superficial to deep. Swedish massage’s characteristic strokes are the perfect way to begin broadly and superficially. Even in a “deep tissue” session, we begin with Swedish massage first, as it warms and prepares your muscles for deeper work.
A misconception about Swedish massage I often come across is that it can’t be deep work. But it can! There are many massage therapists who can give a heavy-handed full-body massage. I often use my elbows (a deep tissue tool) during a friction stroke (a Swedish technique) when I have a client who likes deeper pressure in their full-body massages.
Therapeutic massage
At Somatic Wellness - therapeutic massage starts with a detailed review of data of a clients current and past complaints. Postural Assessment to determine any muscle imbalances, and any structural and functional disparities. For the assessment it may require a certain amount of disrobing, and therefore shorts and appropriate undergarments may be of benefit.
This type of session may retain a relaxation element to it, but advanced assessment and intrinsic or extrinsic techniques are necessary for therapy treatments that are goal orientated. Frequent treatments and exercise concepts will be used to find specific results. If the results aren't found as quickly as anticipated, a reflection into the treatment plan will be studied to conquer those obstacles.
For the safety of the client some imaging may be referred for suspect complaints. Having the use of MRI, Ultrasound, CT Scan & X-Ray are a huge advantage of more serious problems. A true diagnosis can only be made by your GP and or Specialist. Finding out the results can have a great impact on the team of people you choose to help you with your recovery.
Relax Revive Rebalance
Here at Somatic Wellness, we love helping people overcome pain and discomfort through massage therapy.