What Is Massage Therapy?

Massages are often associated with pampering at a spa, but they are done in different places for a variety of wellness-related purposes. They can go far beyond a simple session of rubbing and kneading the skin. Some incorporate acupressure points, while others use objects like hot stones along with the therapist's hands. These different treatment types all fall under the "massage therapy" umbrella.

Definition

At its most basic, massage therapy is the manual manipulation of a person's soft tissues by a trained therapist. The American Massage Therapy Association explains this is done by rubbing, kneading, pushing, long and short hand strokes and pressure. "Massage Today" magazine says it is one of the oldest known healing methods. It is mentioned in 4,000 year old medical texts and Hippocrates, often acknowledged as the father of medicine, recommended its use.

Purpose

Massage is most commonly used for relaxation or to treat muscle tension, sports injuries and pain. The Mayo Clinic explains it has many other physical and emotional benefits. It can lower blood pressure, increase immunity, relieve stiffness, improve anxiety and depression and support cancer treatment. Massage is usually paid for by the client, but some insurance plans may provide benefits for it if it is prescribed by a doctor.

Types

"Massage Today" states certain massage types, such as sports, deep tissue and orthopedic massages, are geared toward treating muscle injuries and pain reduction. Swedish massages are the most popular option, according to the Spa Finder.com, because they use common techniques and offer both relaxation and physical benefits. Other types, like aromatherapy massages that incorporate scented essential oils, are used for relaxation. Acupressure and reflexology treatments focus on acupuncture points to help certain conditions and promote overall wellness. There are also treatment geared to specific clients like geriatric or prenatal massages.

Time Frame

Most massages last an hour, but some can go 90 minutes or longer and a quick treatment can be performed in as little as 15 minutes. Shorter massages are often performed in an upright chair and focus on specific areas like the head, neck and shoulders. Longer treatments involve the whole body, although the therapist may focus more time on problem areas.

Process

Massages are performed in different facilities. The most common are health clubs, spas, luxury hotels, freestanding massage clinics and chiropractic offices. Some therapists perform in-home treatments with portable tables or on-site chair massages at workplaces and shopping centers. Most states require massage therapists to be properly trained and licensed. Many also belong to professional organizations like the American Massage Therapy Association.
Most massage types require partial or full disrobing. They take place in a private room, and the therapist uses sheets to maintain the client's privacy. Certain treatments, like chair and foot massages, do not require undressing. The client can notify the therapist if the pressure is too hard or soft and the therapist will adjust it accordingly.