Remedial Massage
Remedial massage is a complementary therapy. It can be used to help people with problems that affect the muscles, tendons and bones. Remedial massage should not replace care from your doctor.
Problems with your muscles can cause pain in other parts of your body. Remedial massage aims to:
find the problem
treat the problem
manage your symptoms
What does a remedial massage involve?
Remedial massage is used to find any problems you may have, and help you heal. Depending on your problem, the pressure applied can either be:
strong and deep
gentle and shallow
Before having a remedial massage, your therapist will ask you about:
why you made the appointment
your health and lifestyle
if you have any problems or health conditions
They will ask you to lie on a table or couch and will cover you with towels to protect your privacy. Any parts of your body you do not want exposed can be covered.
Your massage therapist may use creams or oils on your skin during your massage.
If you feel uncomfortable during your massage, tell your therapist. They can talk with you and help you to feel more comfortable.
The therapist will use several different techniques to find and repair damaged areas of your body. They might:
stretch parts of your body
move your joints
Common massage techniques include:
effleurage — smooth stroking along a muscle
petrissage — strong stroking applied across a muscle
friction — deep, circular motions
kneading — squeezing a muscle
hacking — lightly striking a muscle
What are the health benefits of remedial massage?
Remedial massage may provide health benefits by:
increasing circulation (blood flow)
increasing the mobility (movement) of your joints
stimulating your damaged tissues to help them repair
relaxing your body
Remedial massage can help relieve problems such as:
neck, shoulder or back pain
muscle cramps
sports or other injuries
If you are experiencing a different problem, a remedial massage therapist can see if it is caused by your muscles, tendons or bones. Your massage therapist can then tailor your massage to help treat the issue. They may help to realign your body and posture.
This can improve problems such as:
fatigue (tiredness)
arthritis and frozen shoulder
Remedial massage can also help:
with addiction rehabilitation
manage anxiety or depression
provide relief from the side effects of cancer treatments
prevent injuries
There is also some evidence that remedial massage can help premature babies gain weight.
Before having a remedial massage, ask your doctor for advice.