Though massage therapy and physical therapy can be similar, there are distinct differences that would make you choose one over the other. While both can relieve tension and aid in treatment, the main difference between the two is that massage therapy is performed by rubbing the body while physical therapy utilizes physical techniques and exercise to rehabilitate the body. While someone getting a massage may not have to seek physical therapy, a patient of physical therapy may have to use massage as a form of their treatment plan.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy uses the practice of touch to manipulate the soft-tissue muscle in the body. Massage built the foundation for physical therapy, seeing as it can be used as rehabilitation for injuries. There are many types of massage. Deep tissue, Swedish, Thai, sports, and pre- and post-natal are just a few types of available massage formats that offer varying degrees of pressure and pace to ignite different benefits.
Benefits of Massage
Those who partake in massage usually do it for relaxation as well as medical treatment. Aside from rehabilitation, massage is also known for decompressing tired, overworked muscles, reducing stress, promoting overall well-being, and treating painful ailments. Blood pressure control, improved immunity, decreased pain and stiffness, as well as depression management are also benefits one might experience.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy provides treatment to those who need to reduce pain, restore function and prevent disability. Injury, age, illnesses and disease are common causes that send patients to physical therapy. While massage can be a method of treatment through physical therapy, therapists also use mechanical means and exercise as ways to rehabilitate the patient. Back and neck injuries, sprains, strains and fractures, arthritis, stroke, and sports injuries are common causes that make physical therapy necessary, and cannot be cured by a simple massage.
The Difference
While massage can be a treatment, it is also largely used for relaxation. Physical therapy, on the other hand, would not be sought when looking for a day at the spa. If you are considering either, visit your healthcare professional first to determine which would be appropriate for the reasons you are seeking treatment. Keep in mind that physical therapy is usually covered by insurance providers, depending on the reason for treatment, yet massage is most often not, unless prescribed by your doctor.
