Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is also known as the Western or classic style of
massage. It is credited to the Swedish fencing master and gymnastics
instructor, Per Henrik Ling. It is a scientific system of manipulations on the
muscles and connective tissues of the body for the purpose of relaxation,
rehabilitation or health maintenance. Swedish massage therapy is comprised of
five basic strokes and their variations: effleurage, petrissage, friction,
tapotement (or percussion) and vibration. The many benefits of Swedish massage
may include generalized relaxation, dissolution of scar tissue adhesions, and
improved circulation, which may speed healing and reduce swelling from injury.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage is also called deep
muscle therapy or deep tissue therapy. It is a term used to describe various
massage styles that focus on the deeper muscles and connective tissues of the
body. The therapist uses movement and pressure to reshape and realign the
muscles and connective tissue, breaking old, habitual holding patterns.
Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger Point Therapy is a pain-relief technique to alleviate muscle spasms and cramping.
The therapist locates and deactivates `trigger points', which are often tender areas where muscles
have been damaged or acquired a reccurring spasm or `kink' that worsens painfully when aggravated.
Trigger Points typically 'refer' pain to areas surrounding or even very distant from the 'tender' point'.
The major goals are to reduce spasm inducing new blood flow into the affected area.
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