Massage therapists rub and knead the body’s soft tissues. Several different types of massage have developed over time around the world. These include Swedish massage (the most popular form in the United States), shiatsu (from Japan), Thai massage and tuina (from China). Massages often occur in a warm, comfortable room and last 55 to 90 minutes.
Massage helps your muscles relax, which in turn reduces stress. It is helpful in treating problems made worse by muscle tension, such as headaches, backaches and insomnia. As muscles are rubbed, blood and oxygen start moving through your body more easily. Patients with serious diseases find that massage helps them relax and feel better.
Studies suggest massage therapy can treat:
- Anxiety and depression
- Back pain
- Knee arthritis
- Migraines
- Neck pain
- Pain from surgery
