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The American Massage Therapy Association defines massage therapy as “a profession in which the practitioner applies manual techniques, and may apply adjunctive therapies, with the intention of positively affecting the health and well-being of the client."  This broad definition covers the many different types of massage therapy available, from those intended to promote relaxation and overall well-being to those that are specific treatment for pain or chronic health issues.

Many people think of massage therapy as simply a treat or indulgence, a way to wind down and reduce stress.  Massage therapy is extremely effective for relaxation, whether it is an occasional treatment, or regularly scheduled massages for improved mood and increased vitality.  Swedish massage techniques are usually used in relaxation massage therapy, which consist of light to medium pressure using hands and arms to treat the body’s soft tissues.  This type of massage provides relief for muscle knots and tension and minor aches and pains.  Those receiving relaxation massage therapy can experience many benefits beyond stress reduction, such as increasing circulation, stimulating the lymph system against toxic invaders, reducing muscle spasms and cramping, and improving joint flexibility.  During massage, clients experience the comfort of touch and endorphins are released. 

The production of endorphins, the body’s natural pain killers, is one of the reasons that massage can go far beyond simple relaxation and can be incorporated into treatment for chronic illnesses, injury and recovery from surgery.  Therapeutic massage also incorporates relaxation, but also utilizes advanced and specialized techniques to manage specific health issues.

Therapeutic massage can reduce pain and release scar tissues, nerve compression and muscle tightness. Conditions that can benefit from incorporating massage therapy include injuries from sports or accidents, fibromyalgia, chronic body aches, cancer, and repetitive stress injuries.  There are also massage therapies that address pediatric issues, pregnancy and post-partum conditions.

If you aren’t sure which type of massage appointment to book, think about the goal of the massage appointment.  Are you generally healthy, but just looking to relieve chronic stress and tension, and improve your sense of well-being?  Even if you have a particular area you’d like the therapist to focus on, a relaxation massage may still be the most appropriate therapy for you.  This therapy will rejuvenate and restore balance to your body overall.

If, however, you have a specific medical condition or injury you want addressed or would like to discuss with your therapist, you may want to book an appointment for a therapeutic massage.  It’s best to mention your condition and whether or not you will be scheduling regular therapeutic massage appointments over a period of time when you call to schedule your initial appointment.  You may need to allow additional time for a more thorough discussion and assessment of your condition before your therapy begins.

Elements Therapeutic Massage at the Scottsdale Promenade in Scottsdale, AZ offers a full range of massage treatments from basic relaxation therapies to therapeutic massage for a wide range of medical conditions and injuries.  At Elements, regular massage therapy to maintain overall health and wellness is also encouraged.