Let’s face it… we could all do with a massage!
You don’t have to be an elite sportsperson or have a chronic injury to need one. The simple stresses of daily life can leave our muscles damaged, knotted, diminished, immobile, strained or stiff.
Regardless of whether you are experiencing muscle aches, tightness or pain, or you just want to relax and help keep those relentless knots at bay, a massage or series of massages can definitely provide you with much needed relief.
How do I choose the correct massage for me?
There are various types of massage available, from Sports, Remedial and Deep Tissue Massage, to Lymphatic or Relaxation Massage.
Sometimes making it confusing to know which one to book!
Generally Relaxation Massage is all about de-stressing and unwinding. They are a gentle, smooth type of flowing massage that is relaxing and invigorating. Perfect as a gift idea!
Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a more moderate form of massage that aims to remove excess fluid and stimulates the body’s lymphatic system to improve blood and lymph circulation, and encourage a healthy immune system.
For those that are more involved in physical activity, you may be more familiar with a Sports, Remedial, or Deep Tissue massage. Whilst all of these assist with muscle recovery and soreness, they can be quite different.
Sports Massage can be simpler to distinguish, as it is designed for the active individual who needs to maintain and optimise their physical potential. It is used to help prepare for sport, recovery after sport or as a preventative treatment to promote flexibility and prevent injury.
However Remedial Massage and Deep Tissue Massage can sometimes be harder to choose between. Here is some more specific information so you can better understand the differences and choose the one that is more suitable for your needs.
What is Remedial Massage?
Remedial Massage is probably one of the most popular massages in Australia. It is a complementary therapy that generally treats a specific problem area that can be caused by postural imbalance, muscle tension or a soft tissue injury.
Remedial massage is great to relieve a wide range of muscle and joint conditions and whilst it can be somewhat relaxing, it is more often regarded as an effective treatment for musculoskeletal disorders or complaints.
This therapy will begin with a detailed assessment of the muscles, ligaments, tendons and posture, to find and treat not only the symptoms, but the cause also.
Remedial massage can include the use of various hands-on massage techniques, hot and cold packs, stretching and recommendations for at home or future treatment. Therapists often work closely with Physiotherapists, to provide a more holistic treatment plan, and Remedial massage is also a widely accepted treatment by all the major health funds.
What is Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep Tissue Massage, however, is more often a general treatment for the whole body, rather than for a specific issue.
The aim of this massage is to release patterns of tension in the muscles to help patients recover from chronic pain and injury. It will loosen muscle tissue, release toxins from the muscles and assist blood and oxygen to circulate properly.
Deep Tissue massage primarily focuses on the deeper layers and structures of muscle tissue and fascia.
Your therapist will apply a firm amount of pressure to release the muscle tension and knots, using slow deep strokes through the muscle fibres. It is a more intense massage and it may feel uncomfortable at times, but it is generally described as a ‘good pain’.
This therapy however, is often not covered by health funds.
So in summary, which Massage should I choose?
In summary, a Deep Tissue massage is ideal as a whole body solution for those that can handle, and respond well to, the deeper pressure and therapeutic benefits.
Whilst a Remedial massage is a more targeted massage that requires an assessment and diagnosis, and then specific treatment for their pain or injury.
Massage Services at Sandgate Physical Health Clinic
At Sandgate Physical Health Clinic, we provide a wide variety of massage services that include essential and speciality treatments, to assist you with recovery and provide an effective healing treatment.
Please contact us today to make a booking.
Our Massages include –