The Rundown on Deep Tissue vs Swedish Massage
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The types of massages available can be confusing. Do you need a Swedish or deep tissue massage? What are the differences, and why should you choose one massage over another? If you want to schedule a massage but aren’t sure what type you should get, we’re here to answer your questions. Let’s dig in!
What is a Swedish Massage?
A Swedish massage is the most commonly requested massage and is the basis for most other massage techniques. Despite the name, the technique for giving a Swedish massage did not originate in Sweden but rather was created by a Dutch doctor and gymnast by the name of Johann Georg Mezger.
Swedish massage involves five separate techniques, designed to relax the entire body and return blood to the heart. These include:
Effleurage - The long, gliding strokes you probably think of when you imagine a typical massage
Friction - Don’t worry, this doesn’t hurt! Friction is the word used to describe circular rubbing motions
Vibration - When the massage therapist “shakes” certain muscles
Tapotement - Using percussive strokes to loosen tension
Petrissage - Kneading the muscles, what you would typically imagine a massage therapist doing to a shoulder or arm
Swedish massages are wonderful when you have stress or anxiety and some mild muscle tension. They improve your quality of sleep, release toxins in the body, and increase circulation. They are not meant to treat severe neck or back pain, but also don’t have some of the side effects that a deep tissue massage may have.
What is a Deep Tissue Massage?
A deep tissue massage is similar to a Swedish massage, but the massage therapist will use their elbows and forearms to reach a deeper layer of muscle. This doesn’t necessarily mean that a deep tissue massage is “better” than a Swedish massage; they are both helpful for different issues.
Deep tissue massages use the same techniques as Swedish massages, but the muscle groups that are targeted are deeper. Deep tissue massages target the connective tissues that may be causing severe pain due to injuries such as whiplash, muscle spasm, or sports injuries. Deep tissue massages are perfect if you are suffering from severe back pain, especially if it is affecting your posture.
Neither type of massage should ever be painful, however, after deep tissue massages, you may notice bruising, due to the massage therapist targeting deeper muscle groups.
Massage Tips
If you are going in for your first massage, you may be unsure of what to expect.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions or speak up!
The massage therapist is there to help. Be sure to tell them if you are uncomfortable, or if anything hurts or is causing discomfort.
Similarly, if you would like to change the temperature in the room, let them know. Some massage therapists will also utilize aromatherapy, essential oils, candles, or music. If you are uncomfortable or dislike any of the scents or sounds they are using, ask them to switch up what they’re doing.
So, in conclusion, if you are looking for a massage that focuses on relaxing your body, uplifting your mood, helping you to get better sleep, stimulate the nervous system, and detoxify your body, you may want to consider scheduling a Swedish massage.
If you are suffering from severe muscle, neck or back pain, sports injuries, muscle spasms, posture issues, whiplash, or anxiety induced pain that cannot be alleviated with a Swedish massage, you should consider a deep tissue massage.
If you think that you would benefit from a combination of both, talk to your massage therapist to customize the perfect massage for you. Keep in mind it may take multiple sessions before you feel the full benefits of either type of massage.
Contact Us!
Whether you want a deep tissue or Swedish massage, our experienced staff is here to ensure that you get the healing you need. Call us today and schedule your appointment!
