Everything You Need to Know About Therapeutic Massage

What if you could improve your physical and mental health at the same time? Imagine relieving aches and pains while relaxing and de-stressing.

With therapeutic massage, it’s possible to treat both body ailments and stress. And this type of massage goes beyond just pampering yourself. It can be a form of medical and physical therapy.

Here’s everything you need to know about therapeutic massage.

What Is Therapeutic Massage?

Therapeutic massage is a type of massage that caters to your medical needs and unique aches and pains.

Compared to other relaxing types of massage, therapeutic massage can accommodate and treat health conditions. Massage therapists are specially trained, and you may need to head to a clinic or hospital to receive this type of massage.

Because therapeutic massage is designed to treat ailments, the style is much different than relaxation massages you may have received in the past.

The massage therapist may use strong, deep tissue techniques to soften intense muscle soreness and tension.

Benefits of Massage Therapy

Getting a massage, and opting for therapeutic massage, in particular, offers benefits to both your body and mind.

Therapeutic massage is a type of physical therapy helping a variety of conditions and pains. For example, work-related physical stress can be relieved through personalized massages.

Chronic pain, such as chronic back pain, may also improve after a therapeutic massage. Even headaches and migraines can benefit from regular massages.

Like many other forms of massage, therapeutic massage can also improve mental health too. Stress, anxiety, and depression can be alleviated with a visit to your local massage therapist.

Getting a massage can lower cortisol and adrenaline while raising levels of serotonin and dopamine in the body. Together, these changes help us to relax and feel at ease.

What to Expect

If you’re considering trying therapeutic massage, look for a massage therapist licensed in therapeutic massage.

Know that not all therapeutic massage clinics are the same. But most will ask about your aches and pains, as well as any other conditions or concerns you may have. Then, the masseuse will typically focus only on certain target parts of the body based on your needs.

The pressure and strokes used are altered depending on your comfort level. If your massage becomes uncomfortable, speak up and let your massage therapist know.

The benefits of therapeutic massage aren’t permanent. So expect to revisit your massage therapist to maintain your treatment.

Therapy for Your Mind and Body

Many types of therapy or medical treatments focus on only the mind or body—not both. But a therapeutic massage is one solution to support and treat physical conditions while also offering an opportunity to relax and unwind.

Try massage therapy from a licensed professional to improve your mental and physical health at the same time.

For more self-care tips and ideas, be sure to read our latest self-help and self-improvement articles!