Massage Therapy

Types

Mayo Clinic massage therapists perform these techniques:

• Swedish: Long, flowing movements and strokes toward the center of the body promote relaxation and increased blood flow
• Deep tissue: Patterns of strokes and deep finger pressure that target a deep muscle or muscle group to reduce tightness
• Neuromuscular: Static or constant pressure applied to trigger points within the muscle
• Myofascial release: Sustained pressure applied with an open hand to eliminate pain, restore motion and release connective tissue that is twisted or compressed due to injury or illness
• Reflexology: Pressure applied to areas of palms of the hands and soles of the feet that correspond to mapped zones of the body based on Chinese medicine principles. Charts guide the therapist to massage specific points on the hands and feet to relieve problem areas elsewhere.