Massage
Massage is the manipulation of superficial and deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue using various techniques, to enhance function, aid in the healing process, decrease muscle reflex activity, inhibit motor-neuron excitability, and to promote relaxation.
The word comes from the French massage "friction of kneading", or from Arabic massa meaning "to touch, feel or handle" or from Latin massa meaning "mass, dough"
Massage involves working and acting on the body with pressure (structured, unstructured, stationary, or moving), tension, motion, or vibration. It can be done manually or with mechanical aids. Target tissues may include muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, skin, joints, or other connective tissue, as well as lymphatic vessels. Massage can be applied with the hands, fingers, or elbows.
This type of therapy is done on an as needed basis or as prescribed by a physician.