Many people turn to massage for pain relief or relaxation. According to an American Massage Therapy Association survey conducted in 2009, an average of 22 percent of adults in the United States received a massage during the previous year. As massage enters mainstream culture, so do the many massage tools associated with traditional, deep tissue and new types of massage treatments.
Massage table
In theory, massage therapists can take place anywhere from a chair to a beach towel spread over the sand. In practice, many masseurs use a massage table, especially for full-body massage. The table is rigid but lightweight, allowing the masseur to fold it up and travel with it if necessary. A circular headrest with a hole in the center allows the client to lay face down and breathe comfortably during the massage.
The masseur can adjust the table's height and the angle of the headrest to accommodate clients of different sizes and to maximize the effects of the massage. Some massage tables come with basic accessories such as adjustable arm rests, footrests, bolsters, upholstery, cushions, warmers or a carrying case.
Rollers and Vibrators
Rather than rely on their hands, many masseurs employ tools such as foam rollers or vibrators. These tools can help them reach deep tissue and target trigger points. People also use these tools for self-massage. The foam rollers have a diameter of around six inches.
Vibrators have small motors that cause padded knobs to shake at various speeds. Reviewers on Therapeutic-massage.org add that a vibrator "massages even in places where the masseur's hand cannot reach."
Massage oil
Massage oil, cream, lotion or gel may contain essential oils or other fragrances to give a massage an element of aromatherapy. However, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the main purpose of massage oils is to reduce friction. Almond oil and other carrier oils reduce drag on the skin and can help the masseur effectively manipulate the client's muscles and tissues. Massage oils may come from coconut, jojoba, apricot kernel, sunflower, avocado or other natural substances.
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