What type of Massage is best for me?

Swedish massage refers to a variety of techniques specifically designed to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against the deeper muscles and bones and rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart.

The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles. It can shorten recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid and other metabolic wastes and stretches ligaments and tendons keeping them supple and pliable. Other benefits include generalized relaxation, improved circulation, lowered blood pressures and a general enhancement of your overall state of health.

 

Remedial or deep tissue massage focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. It aims to release chronic patterns of tension in the body through slow strokes and deep finger pressure on the contracted areas, either following or going across the fibers of the muscles, tendons and fascia. This helps to “unstick” the fibers of the muscle and release deeply held patterns of tension while removing toxins and relaxing and soothing the muscle. This process will help reduce adhesions and scar tissue, increase range of motion and decrease inflammation

 

Remedial massage can be a treatment for the whole body or for a specific injury such as sprains, overuse injuries, work related muscular conditions and bruising but is generally focused on more specific areas than Swedish massage. You may experience some discomfort during or right after a remedial massage due to the correction of adhesions and removal of lymphatic wastes in the muscles however you should feel a significant improvement within a day or two.

 

This is a specialized form of massage and is typically used before, during and after an athletic event. The benefits include preparing the athlete for peak performance, flushing the muscles, relief of swelling, reduction of muscle tension, promotion of flexibility and injury prevention.

 

The main purpose of sports massage is to help alleviate the stress and tension which builds up in the body’s soft tissues during physical activity. Where minor injuries and lesions occur, due to overexertion and/or overuse, massage can break them down quickly and effectively. Sports massage can also include maintenance techniques that promote greater performance, lessen the chance of injury and reduce recovery time.

 

Hot stone massage uses smooth heated stones to induce deep relaxation. As the heat penetrates deep into the muscles it can help to relieve stress and tension. It also has a calming effect on the nervous system and helps to increase circulation of both blood and lymphatic fluid.

A very light, gentle, repetitive stroke is used to stimulate the activity of the lymphatic system where there is edema. Lymphatic drainage is used to reduce swelling resulting from injury, post surgery and often after surgery for breast cancer.

 

SquareOne’s Massage Therapists work closely with our Physiotherapists to ensure that our clients receive the most beneficial treatment for their symptoms.