Swedish Massage and Deep Tissue Massage
Swedish Massage and Deep Tissue Massage with Annabel Hockey-Smith
What is Swedish massage?
Swedish massage can be defined as the use of classic massage techniques to manipulate soft tissue for relaxation and holistic therapeutic purposes. It is the foundation of many Western massage practices such as acupressure massage, aromatherapy massage and reflexology, based on the theory of releasing tension by applying pressure to meridian points along the body.
The techniques used within Swedish massage are the four main techniques that make up the core of nearly all different massage therapies and re-taught to every therapist when they begin. There are four main movements that are used to soothe and improve muscle condition, improve circulation and help you feel relaxed.
These four movements are called effleurage, petrissage, kneading and tapotement.
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What is deep tissue massage?
Deep tissue massage is a massage technique that’s mainly used to treat musculoskeletal issues, such as strains and sports injuries. It involves applying sustained pressure using slow, deep strokes to target the inner layers of your muscles and connective tissues. This helps to break up scar tissue that forms following an injury and reduce tension in muscle and tissue.
It may also promote faster healing by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation.
Read on to learn more about deep tissue massage, including how it stacks up against Swedish massage and what to expect during a session.
What are the benefits of deep tissue massage?
Deep tissue massage offers both physical and psychological benefits. Unlike other massage techniques that focus on relaxation, deep tissue massage helps to treat muscle pain and improve stiffness. But it can still help to you unwind mentally, too.
People have also reported that deep tissue massage helps with:
• sports injuries
• fibromyalgia
• plantar fasciitis
• high blood pressure
• sciatica
• tennis elbow
