Massage therapy is a technique that requires hands-on rubbing and stroking to loosen stiff muscles and relax soft tissues. Remedial massage utilizes a number of techniques to target specific areas of tightness and pain. Remedial massage typically treats pain and discomfort caused from overuse, an injury or poor posture.
History
The use of therapeutic massage has been used for centuries in early Chinese, Greek and Indian cultures. Europeans embraced massage for healing purposes during the Renaissance period. Swedish massage was introduced to America during the 1850s and experienced a resurgence of interest in the 1970s. Sports and remedial massage continues to be popular, especially among athletes.
Effects
Remedial massage typically targets specific points of pain and tightness. According to Hazlehurst-Irving Health and Fitness, common areas that benefit from the effects of deep-tissue sports massage include stiff necks and muscle tension in the back, shoulders and legs. Athletes with tennis elbow or golfer's swing disorders are treated with remedial massage techniques. Tendonitis, poor blood flow, headaches and strains also can effectively be treated with remedial massage.
Benefits
Athletes benefit immediately from deep-tissue massage when target points are worked with the long, deep circular strokes of the massage therapist's hands, allowing them to continue in a competition. Remedial massage also is beneficial to athletes recovering from injuries and strains as part of the rehabilitative process. Pain and tension can be alleviated and soft tissue manipulated to speed up recovery and decrease discomfort.
Features
Most therapists who provide sports or remedial massage are specially trained in physiology and understand the body's mechanics, often more clearly than whole-body massage therapists trained to provide stress relief. According to Therapy Masters, remedial therapists feature techniques such as myofascial release, deep traverse friction and trigger point therapy.
Warning
Training is vital for a remedial massage therapist, as she could cause a number of complications if she works on a client without knowing the risks and side effects of certain treatments. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, massage should never be performed on an open wound or when there is a possibility of internal bleeding. Massage can also create complications if performed on blood clots and broken bones.
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