Massage therapy is a popular healing technique that has been used for thousands of years, dating back to 3000 BC. The Hindus believed that massage therapy could cure diseases as it was part of their sacred natural healing system. It has since become popular worldwide, but it is more than a trend, as massage therapy has scientifically proven health benefits.

There are more than 50 massage techniques, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. This article will discuss the 15 most popular ones and the different problems they help to solve. But before we do, let’s take a look at what massage therapy is and the significant benefits it offers.

What is Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy involves using a combination of rubbing, stroking, pressure, and sometimes, heat to manipulate the skin, tendons, ligaments and tissues in the body. The massage therapist can alternate between gentle and strong pressure during a massage to help ease tension and pain in different parts of the body. As stated earlier, multiple massage techniques focus on other body parts and have different healing methods. Plus, massage therapy offers long-term health benefits, making it an integral part of complementary medicine.

Major Benefits of Massage Therapy:

Some of the health benefits of massage therapy, according to recent scientific studies, are highlighted below:

Pain management
Boosts immune system function
Provides relief for carpal tunnel syndrome
Anxiety and stress management
Improves sleep quality
Decreases inflammation
Eases chronic tension headache

Popular massage techniques for every problem.

1. Sports massage:

Sports massage is a technique used for people with physically demanding hobbies or lifestyles, such as athletes or fitness trainers. This massage technique is generally used to release muscular tension, reduce pain and mobilise soft tissues, as sports massage therapists consider the effects of different activities on parts of the body.

Athletes and active people can use sports massage as part of their training programme to improve performance and reduce the risk of injury. Post-operative and physiotherapy patients can also benefit from the healing effects of sports massage.

Despite the name, this massage technique is suitable for everyone, whether you are a professional athlete or lead a sedentary lifestyle. Sports massage is essential for improving recovery and injury rehabilitation and can be applied at different times – pre-event, post-event or as part of the training programme.

This massage technique can be tailored to the challenges and needs of the individual, allowing the massage therapist to identify and treat specific physical problems. Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is a common problem faced by athletes and physically active people and is caused by a number of different factors.

Sports massage helps to treat this problem by removing waste products and increasing blood and oxygen flow to the body.

2. Deep Tissue:

Deep tissue massage is a popular massage technique that focuses on controlling the deep layers of muscle and connective tissue. Most people choose this massage technique to treat musculoskeletal problems, chronic pain or sports injuries, as it involves breaking up scar tissue that forms after an injury or surgery.

During a deep tissue massage, the massage therapist uses deep and slow strokes to release tension from the deep layers of muscle, and this type of massage is suitable for persistently tight areas such as the neck, shoulders and back.

Deep tissue massage helps to increase joint mobility, improve injury recovery, reduce pain and improve posture and flexibility.

The difference between deep tissue massage and other techniques is that deep tissue massage applies more pressure to areas of high tension. In most cases, ice can be applied to the area after the massage to help with tenderness and stiffness.

Also, deep tissue massage is not suitable for everyone, especially people with blood clotting disorders, nerve damage, skin conditions, increased risk of injury and the elderly.

3. Swedish massage:

Swedish massage is a full-body massage technique used to release tension and relax the whole body. This technique is best for those who have a lot of tension, are sensitive to touch and are new to massage therapy, as it focuses on stimulating nerve endings and improving circulation in superficial muscle layers. Swedish massage is one of the most popular massage therapy techniques and uses different massage techniques such as kneading, rubbing, stroking, gliding and tapping. In addition, Swedish massage therapists use long strokes to mimic the body’s natural circulation, removing toxins and increasing blood and oxygen flow.

Swedish massage therapy combines body repair and relaxation in one, which is one of the reasons it is so popular. This massage technique has several benefits such as reducing muscle pain and stiffness, increasing flexibility, relieving constipation, improving sleep quality and strengthening the immune system. Swedish massage therapists also apply moisturisers and aromatic oils to your skin during the massage session, and the session is usually done on a massage table, where you’ll need to be undressed except for your underwear.

4. Hot stone massage:

The hot stone massage technique is derived from the Swedish massage technique and involves the use of hot stones to perform the massage procedure. Contrary to what most people believe, the hot stones will not burn or scratch the skin, as the stones used are not random types of stone. Basalt, a type of volcanic rock, is often used for this massage technique as it retains heat when heated to up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit.

During the massage process, the massage therapist will place different sizes of stones on the part of the body they are working on, and some of the places where stones are typically placed include the chest, spine, stomach, feet, hands and face.

Swedish massage therapists use a combination of kneading, circular motions, tapping, long strokes and vibration during the massage session to release muscle tension and stimulate the body. The stones are usually warmed over a fire before being placed on the body, but are not heated to the point where they can burn the skin. The hot stone massage technique is commonly used to treat soft tissue and damaged muscles, and some of the benefits of this technique include improved immunity, improved sleep, pain relief, increased flexibility, stress reduction and improved circulation.

Unlike the typical heat compress, the hot stones retain the heat longer, allowing it to penetrate deeper into the muscle. Furthermore, this massage technique is open to everyone as there are no age restrictions.

5. Aromatherapy massage:

The aromatherapy massage technique incorporates the use of essential oils into the massage. It combines gentle and firm pressure while using different blends of essential oils. Aromatherapy massage helps to improve mood, manage pain and induce relaxation.

Massage therapists usually apply the diluted essential oils along with lotion to the skin during the massage, and it is claimed that these essential oils help to enhance the benefits of the different massage techniques. In addition, some of the essential oils used for this technique include orange, chamomile, ginger, lemon, lavender, tea tree, peppermint, cedar, eucalyptus, bergamot and others. Some therapists also use CBD oils in their therapy (if the client agrees) to reduce inflammation and soothe the muscles.

Some massage therapists have their clients gently inhale these oils through a diffuser, as they are thought to have healing properties. This massage technique is usually added to a typical massage session and helps clients with stress and anxiety relief, pain relief, arthritis symptoms, improved sleep quality and improved mood.

Some of the types of massage that aromatherapy can be incorporated into include prenatal, Swedish, deep tissue and hot stone massage. In addition, the massage therapist will select the essential oil that works best with the specific needs of the client, as each has its own unique properties and benefits.

6. Shiatsu massage:

Shiatsu massage is a Japanese massage technique that involves tapping, soothing, kneading, stretching and pressing. This non-invasive technique is usually performed through comfortable clothing, without any oils, and can be used to treat various musculoskeletal conditions. Massage therapists use it to treat chronic conditions such as insomnia, anxiety, headaches, digestive problems, joint pain and fatigue.

Shiatsu also stimulates the circulatory and lymphatic systems and helps with posture and flexibility.
Despite the Japanese heritage of this massage technique, Shiatsu uses similar styles to other massage techniques such as lymphatic drainage, physiotherapy and osteopathy.

This massage technique works on the whole body, but massage therapists can focus on areas that need more attention. People with stressful jobs and active lifestyles may need regular shiatsu massage sessions, but for others, one session a month will help them maintain their balance and flexibility. Also, this massage technique is usually performed with the client fully clothed and usually lasts about 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the problem.

7. Pilates Abdominal Massage:

Pilates abdominal massage helps to massage and release tension in the internal organs and spine. This massage technique focuses on the abdominal muscles such as the rectus abdominis, transversus abdominis and obliques.

Pilates massage therapists typically use different methods to treat muscle tension and tightness in the abdominal area, and this technique helps to reduce pain and increase flexibility. Kneading, skin rolling, wringing and deep strokes are also used to release tension in the abdominal area.

A series of Pilates massage exercises are also performed on the mat, chair or reformer to massage the abdomen and release tension, and Pilates abdominal massages are good for toning and strengthening the abdominal and back muscles.

8. Thai massage:

Originating in India, Thai massage has been used for over 2000 years and this ancient massage practice combines acupressure and Indian Ayurvedic principles with assisted yoga poses for pain relief. Rather than lying on a massage table (as with other massage techniques), you lie fully clothed in loose-fitting clothing on a mat while the Thai massage therapist uses various techniques such as compression, stretching and acupressure to release tension in your body. This massage technique also helps to improve flexibility, posture, energy levels and circulation.

Thai massage, sometimes referred to as assisted yoga, focuses on improving the flow of energy throughout the body and can be used to relieve headaches, joint pain and back pain. This massage technique also helps to relieve anxiety and reduce fatigue. Traditional Thai massage therapists use their hands, elbows, forearms and feet to release muscle tension. Because this massage technique involves active movement and participation throughout the massage session, it is not the best option for everyone, especially people with injuries or heart conditions.

Some massage therapists also use traction during the massage session, such as pulling fingers, cracking knuckles, walking on someone’s back and moving the client’s body through various basic yoga poses.

9. Oncology massage:

Oncology massage therapy is a specialised massage technique that helps cancer patients cope with their cancer experience and improve their quality of life.

Scientific literature reviews have shown that this massage technique helps to improve sleep and immune function in cancer patients, while reducing the pain, nausea and fatigue typically associated with cancer. Oncology massage therapists meet people at different stages of cancer and provide tailored massage treatments to support and comfort them through the process. In addition, most oncology massage treatments are adapted to the different cancer-related problems, whether physical, emotional or psychosocial.

Trained oncology massage therapists take into account patients’ individual goals and the side effects of cancer treatments when providing massage therapy to patients. Some cancer patients seek oncology massage to help relieve a variety of cancer-related symptoms. However, some studies show that cancer and cancer treatments can put the patient at risk of complications when receiving oncology massage.

Therefore, the massage therapist should take appropriate precautions and training and be aware of the client’s cancer history, both past and present, before treating them.

10. Prenatal massage:

Prenatal massage therapy is a safe way for pregnant women to get massages and this technique helps to reduce stress, muscle tension and pain associated with pregnancy. Many pregnant women experience different types of pain such as neck pain, back pain, joint pain and others and this massage technique helps to relieve the tension in the muscle to reduce the pain. Prenatal massage is good for circulation and helps to reduce the risk of joint swelling during pregnancy. You can have a prenatal massage at any stage of your pregnancy, but it is advisable not to have one during the first trimester to reduce the risk of miscarriage.

Pregnant women also need to get their doctor’s permission before having a prenatal massage.

Prenatal massages help to remove tissue waste and toxins from the body and improve the general mood of the expectant mother. You need to tell the massage therapist that you are pregnant so that they can tailor the session to suit you. Prenatal massage uses gentle pressure and the therapist focuses on areas such as the legs, hips and lower back. Other benefits of this massage technique include reducing insomnia, anxiety and headaches.

11. Trigger point massage:

Trigger point massage is used to release trigger points that cause pain in various parts of the body, most often as a result of injury, surgery, inactivity, overexertion or poor posture. Trigger points can often cause headaches, muscle strain and even injury. This massage technique is best for people with injuries and chronic pain as it targets the knots and points in the muscle to reduce pain. Trigger point massage goes deep into the muscle layer to release the build-up of tension and involves applying varying levels of pressure to the affected area.

During trigger point massage, you may experience both relief and discomfort as the massage therapist focuses on releasing the knots in your body. This massage technique can be used on the whole body, or the therapist can focus on specific areas of tension that need to be released. You do not need to be fully undressed during a trigger point massage session and they usually last between 10 minutes and an hour, depending on the muscle strain. Some benefits of this massage technique include improved flexibility, healthy muscle maintenance, enhanced relaxation and reduced pain.

12. Reflexology massage:

Reflexology massage involves applying gentle and firm pressure to various pressure points on the hands, ears and feet. This massage technique is based on the theory that different body systems and organs are connected to the hands, feet and ears. If you don’t like being touched on different parts of your body, this is a good massage technique to try. Reflexology massage therapists are called reflexologists and they believe that there are various health benefits to applying pressure to these specific parts of the body.

This massage technique is quite different from a regular foot massage, as it uses pressure point massage methods on specific areas of the feet, hands and ears to restore energy flow to different parts of the body. Reflexology can help with a variety of health issues such as headaches, stomach problems or sinus problems, and it helps with the circulation of blood, oxygen and nutrients. You can also use this massage technique to aid relaxation, improve mood, reduce pain and rid your body of various toxins.

While there are some theories that reflexology can help boost the immune system and improve digestion, there is no conclusive scientific study to prove that it is a useful treatment for any medical condition.

13. Chair massage:

Chair massages usually focus on the neck, shoulders, arms, hand, head and back and are ideal for people who want a quick massage. The chair massage technique uses manual guidance to release muscle tension and uses a uniquely designed chair to support the client during the massage. Clients need to straddle the chair to give the massage therapist access to their neck and back. Chair massage therapists usually use light or medium pressure as this technique helps to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Also, this massage technique usually lasts about 30 minutes and clients remain fully clothed throughout the session.

Chair massages are readily available in a variety of places such as salons, spas, trade shows, festivals and shopping malls. In addition, this massage technique is good for typically active people as it helps to improve circulation, improve sleep quality, support immune health, improve flexibility and lower blood pressure.

14. Petrissage massage:

Petrissage massage technique involves applying deep pressure to the tissues and muscles and is used to treat muscle spasms and relieve pressure points. This technique combines squeezing, kneading and stretching movements to loosen muscle fibres and release tension. Massage therapists use this technique to activate the lymphatic and vascular systems, which in turn improves blood circulation and facilitates the removal of toxins from the body. This technique is also used to break up adhesions that occur after surgery or injury.

Petrissage massage increases recovery, improves circulation and increases physical flexibility. It also reduces delayed onset muscle soreness and improves muscle function.

This massage technique should not be used over inflamed areas, new scar tissue, damaged skin or after a new injury. It is also important to allow sufficient recovery time after surgery or injury to avoid further damage to the area.

15. Tapotement:

The tapotement massage technique involves a rhythmic tapping or patting motion, usually done with the outside of the hand or fingertips. This technique helps to stimulate superficial muscle tissue and can be used as a pre-workout or competition massage technique. The benefits of this massage technique range from increased blood circulation to improved recovery and muscle relaxation. Most athletes use this massage technique to help them recover faster from physical exertion and to loosen their muscles before an event. In addition, prolonged tapotement can help reduce anxiety and relieve muscle tension.