Classic forms of massage
Classic (Swedish) massage
In Europe, when we talk about a “classic” massage we mean a Swedish massage. Classic massage involves directly massaging the skin and muscles in the affected area. Five different hand movements are used –stroking, kneading, rubbing, tapping and vibrating. The basic idea behind this approach is that pain is often caused by tense and tight muscles that affect blood circulation and irritate the nerves. The aim of classic massage is to relax the muscles and improve circulation by directly treating these problems.
Manipulation
In this approach, ligaments, tendons and muscles are massaged, while at the same time they are also stretched and moved. The aim is to improve mobility and relieve pain. Manipulation therapy is not necessarily “purely” massage: It also combines many physiotherapy techniques.
Mobilization
This therapy focuses on moving the joints in the body and the spine as well as massaging the muscles. Like manipulation, mobilization aims to improve mobility, and includes elements of both massage and physiotherapy. It is also used to relax your muscles and improve posture and positioning.
Connective tissue massage
Connective tissue connects the different structures of the body – such as organs, muscles and nerves – with each other. The aim of massaging connective tissue is to treat illnesses by relieving tension and positively influencing organs elsewhere in the body.
Deep tissue massage
Here it is mainly the deeper layers of muscle that are massaged. Strong pressure is applied to muscles and tendons using the fingers to try to relieve tension in the body. The deeper the massage, the more painful it can be.