BY Janice Smith, CMT, NCTMB, St. Cloud Campus, Massage Therapy Instructor/ Program Director
Since Massage Therapy is something that some are just now giving greater credit to as a profession, I thought that this would be a great way to introduce others to the profession and give a brief overview of a few different modalities that are available in the industry.
"BUZZWORDS"
Massage Therapy - The practice of therapeutic massage in the United States dates back to the 1890s, when massages were routinely available at the YMCA and YWCA.
Swedish Massage - Is the most commonly taught and well-known massage technique, and mainly relaxes the muscles, easing aches and pains. A Swedish doctor invented this style of massage in 1813. Five basic strokes, all flowing toward the heart, are used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. Pressure upon the body may be light or firm, depending on the preference of the client.
Medical Massage - Sometimes Swedish is referred to as Medical Massage, since the massage strokes are performed in the direction of blood flow through the circulatory system. Usually this term is used when the practice of medical documentation and record keeping is involved.
Masseuse/Masseur - This is an outdated term for the profession. Practitioners prefer to be called Massage Therapist, Muscular Therapist, or Bodyworker.
Deep Tissue - Any massage technique that involves working into the body and insertion points of the muscle, rather than just gliding on the surface of the skin. Sometimes called Neuromuscular Massage.
Therapeutic Massage - At many spas and professional offices this term is used to distinguish between a deep tissue massage and one that is performed superficially.
Sports Massage - Can be any muscular treatment specific to common sports injuries. The therapist strives to alleviate inflammation, provide muscular warm-up, stretches and other techniques for the amateur and professional athlete.
Shiatsu - Is a Japanese acupressure massage that is done by applying pressure along the meridians. The therapist focuses on the ancient meridian pathways on the body, rather than the muscular system. The client may be fully clothed. This treatment can be performed either on a massage table or on a floor mat.
Reflexology - This is Shiatsu of the hands and feet. Often, this is given whenever a fully clothed, short treatment is called for.
Chair Massage - Sometimes called corporate massage, or seated massage. This is most commonly practiced on-site at businesses which will allow a client to receive a short treatment at their desk. The therapist will bring a padded chair, or the client will lean over their desk on a table top face rest. This is done fully-clothed, without oil.
Hydrotherapy - Refers to the therapeutic use of water at any temperature or form, including ice packs, vaporizers, and hot baths.