Therapeutic Massage in Nashville, TN.
There Are Different Types of Therapeutic Massage
Depending on your condition, your sensitivity to touch, and your comfort for lying down or sitting, your chiropractor and massage therapist will determine which type of therapeutic massage is most appropriate for you. There are multiple therapeutic massage techniques, and no single technique fits every body—and massage therapists often have their own specialties when it comes to the techniques they practice. Here are a few of the most common techniques, some of which you may be familiar with:
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage starts with smooth, gliding light pressure strokes called effleurage to warm up the tissue. Once the tissue is warmed, the therapist applies firmer pressure to the muscles, known as petrissage. Swedish massage is excellent for relaxation, but it also boosts circulation and flexibility. Additionally, there is some evidence that Swedish massage can lower cortisol, a stress hormone, and strengthen the immune system.
Lymphatic Drainage
Lymphatic drainage techniques are effective for reducing swelling (edema). These methods involve gentle yet firm pressure combined with movements toward the heart to manually promote lymphatic flow. Lymphatic drainage is also beneficial when swelling results from lymph node damage or removal.
Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger points, also known as muscle “knots,” are sensitive areas of tight muscle fibers and are a common muscle-related issue. During a trigger point therapy session, the therapist will first identify the problem area(s) and then apply firm pressure to loosen and disperse the trigger point. You may feel tenderness during a trigger point therapy session.
Chair Massage
Many therapeutic massage techniques can be performed either while lying down or seated. Chair massage allows you to remain seated throughout the session in a specially designed therapeutic massage chair. Usually, during a chair massage, the therapist does not use any creams or oils, and the patient is often fully clothed.
What to Expect During a Therapeutic Massage Session
A therapeutic massage session at your chiropractor’s office may differ from a massage at a spa or wellness center. Therapeutic massage here serves a specific structural and functional purpose, focusing on particular areas of the body. Your chiropractor and massage therapist will work together with you to identify which types of therapeutic massage will be most beneficial and to determine the duration of each session. Before your first appointment, your therapist might provide paperwork to gather detailed information about your tension areas and other basic health details. The massage therapist will also ask about your preferred pressure, whether light, medium, or firm. Throughout the massage, it’s recommended to inform your therapist if they can apply more pressure or need to lighten up during your session.
A study from the University of Miami found that children with asthma saw significant benefits from a massage session, as shown by improvements in lung function tests and reduced anxiety scores. Many patients also benefit from including therapeutic massage in their treatment plans alongside chiropractic care. Since there are various massage techniques available, it is important for your chiropractor and therapist to thoroughly evaluate your concerns and determine which therapies will help improve the physical structure and function of those areas. Please let us know if you’re interested in learning more about how therapeutic massage might help you.