Different Types of Massage Therapy

Massage Therapy Modalities

Different Types of Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is manual manipulation of soft body tissues — muscle, connective tissue, tendons, and ligaments — to enhance a person's health and well-being. There are dozens of types of massage therapy methods, also called modalities. Our licensed therapists at Back To Life Chiropractic are trained in a wide range of techniques to address your specific needs.

Lymphatic Massage

Reduces muscle swelling and supports detoxification

The Lymphatic system's job is to detoxify bodily fluids before they are circulated into the blood stream. The Lymphatic system moves the fluids through the body and then to the liver. Toxemia and swelling is a result of the Lymphatic system not working properly. Lymphatic massage reduces muscle swelling, which increases blood flow, which in turn supports proper Lymphatic system functioning.

Relaxation Massage

Gentle, full-body relaxation in a calm environment

The goal of a relaxation massage is to relax you. This type of massage is gentle and less intense than some of the other styles. The therapist gently works the upper layers of the muscle tissue to increase relaxation. Relaxation massage is a total experience as it is performed in a dim setting, with candles and sometimes with scented oils.

Myofascial Release

Relieves pain and restores range of motion

Myofascial release involves applying gentle, sustained pressure to the Myofascial connective tissue restrictions. The massage relaxes the contracted muscles and increases venous and lymphatic drainage. Myofascial release treats somatic dysfunction and relieves the accompanying pain and limited range of motion.

Sports Massage

Increases flexibility and prevents sports injuries

Sports massage works on the connective tissue and deep muscle structures. The massage is applied using hard and deep strokes, combined with finger pressure. Sports massage is specifically designed to increase flexibility and prevent injuries. It is specifically designed for the types of injuries obtained during athletic activity.

Swedish Massage

Boosts circulation and releases stored toxins

Swedish massage increases blood circulation to more than 4 times its normal rate. The massage releases the stagnant toxins stored in the muscle fibers. The result is fresh oxygenated blood flow into the muscles, that boosts energy levels.

Warm Stone Massage

Deep muscle relaxation using warm river stones

Warm stone massage is a unique approach that uses warm river stones in strategic spots to relax the muscles and increase circulation. Combined with manual massage, this treatment is guaranteed to cure what ails you.

Rehabilitative Massage

Supports injury healing and full range of motion recovery

Rehabilitative massage is designed to support healing of injuries and restoring full range of motion. Active Release, Myofascial Release, and Neuromuscular Therapy are examples of rehabilitative massage techniques that locate the source of spasms and tension. The therapist focuses on these muscles to restore them to their natural state.

Not Sure Which Massage Is Right for You?

Our licensed therapists will assess your needs and recommend the best treatment for your condition and goals.

Common Questions

Common Questions About Types of Massage Therapy

Lymphatic massage uses gentle, rhythmic strokes to stimulate lymph flow, reduce swelling, support the immune system, and aid recovery from surgery or illness.

Swedish massage uses long, flowing strokes for relaxation, while deep tissue massage applies firmer pressure to release chronic muscle tension and target deeper layers of tissue.

Myofascial release targets the connective tissue surrounding muscles, releasing tightness and restrictions that cause pain and limit movement.

Sports massage is specifically designed for athletes and active individuals, addressing muscle soreness, improving flexibility, and accelerating recovery from sports injuries.

Yes. Our therapists at Back To Life Chiropractic often combine techniques such as Swedish, deep tissue, and myofascial release to address your specific needs in a single session.