Because of a sedentary lifestyle, excess weight, and uncomfortable shoes, the problem with the back and core becomes more frequent. People suffering from back problems have difficulty performing day to day tasks. This can decrease the quality of life significantly and make you more prone to depression because of chronic pain. While pain medications can relieve the pain they don’t eliminate the root cause. 

One of the best ways to relieve pain and improve overall wellbeing is a massage. Apart from back pain relief, massage therapy can improve different aspects of your health. Below are 6 common types of massage and their benefits for your health. Don’t miss them to stay on top of your overall health.

1. Thai massage

Thai massage is an ancient practice that combines Indian Ayurvedic principles, yoga poses, and acupressure. During the procedure, you have to be clothed in loose-fitting clothes. The therapist uses pulling, stretching, compression, and rocking movements instead of traditional hands-on bodywork. This helps to relax muscles and relieve painful muscle tension. 

The procedure can last up to two hours. Each therapist has his own personal style meaning that the therapy can differ from a specialist to a specialist. A Thai massage is preferred if you don’t have any site-specific pains or strains. 

2. Active release therapy

Active release massage is a type of therapy developed for athletes to improve their athletic performance as quickly as possible. While it’s developed for athletes, anyone can reap the benefits of active release therapy. This massage helps treat minor issues related to muscles, fascia, nerves, and ligaments. Active release massage aims to release built-up scar tissue within the deep muscle that often develops because of muscle overuse exercise or active job.

The manipulations with soft tissues help restore the full range of motions and relieve discomfort. The procedure usually lasts up to 60 minutes. Keep in mind that active release massage should never occur more than once a week. 

3. Hot stone massage

The hot stone massage is a type of therapy that helps relax tense muscles and damaged soft tissues. During the procedure, the therapist places smooth heated stones on specific areas of your body including the spine, dace, stomach, and chest. Hot stone massage has numerous health benefits. While it alleviates muscle tension, it promotes better sleep, relieves symptoms of autoimmune diseases, and boosts immunity as well. 

During the procedure, the therapist can use cold stones. They may be used after hot stones to soothe soft tissues and calm any engorged blood vessels. 

4. Myofascial therapy

Myofascial therapy is the most simple type of massage. You even don’t need to visit a therapist to reap the benefits of this type of therapy. Myofascial therapy is based on breaking down tight fascia. This is the layer of connective tissue that covers the muscle under the skin. The fascia is an important part of the musculoskeletal system because it allows your body to move and hold different bodily positions. 

You can opt for a foam roller or massage stick to perform myofascial massage at home. Use these tools to massage your body and relieve fascia strain. This therapy is ideal to treat shoulder pain at home. 

5. Reflexology

Reflexology aka zone therapy is a nontraditional method of massage. It uses the body’s natural reflexes through a series of specific techniques without the use of oil. The therapist divides your body into ten zones. The pressure applied to each zone through nerve signals helps to reduce muscle tension and pain. This helps release dopamine or endorphins which help alleviate pain as well.

Reflexology is a great option if you want to get a short-term result or relieve mild pain. This therapy isn’t suitable for serious medical conditions treatment. 

6. Medical massage

A medical massage is a type of therapy that combines different massage techniques. These include trigger point therapy, cranial-sacral techniques, and deep tissue massage. Medical massage can lower blood pressure, treat pain in soft tissues, and promote fluid movements around the body. Medical massage is generally safe so almost anyone can benefit from it. 

The methods, frequency, and duration of procedures depends on your condition and may vary from person to person. Some experts claim that medical massage can be used to treat mental illnesses like anxiety and depression. If you have a mental disease, a medical massage is an option. 

7. Amatsu

Amatsu is a type of ancient Japanese massage therapy that works with soft tissue and fascia. During the procedure, the therapist uses natural movements to make mild changes in the body and gently realign the joints. Amatsu is based on the balance of five main principles that include structure, energy, emotions, nutrition, and environment. Amatsu therapists believe that these five factors are crucial for a fully functioning body.

This is a non-invasive procedure, so all age groups can reap the benefits of this procedure. It can help relieve tension in the muscles and improve overall wellbeing. 

8. Lymphatic drainage massage

Lymphatic drainage massage is designed to boost fluid circulation in your body. During the procedure, the therapist uses both pressure and rhythmic movements to encourage lymph flow. This helps to soothe the muscles, reduce swelling, and eliminate toxins from your body. Lymphatic drainage massage is usually performed as a part of a treatment program called decongestive lymphatic therapy. 

This massage can be beneficial for people with conditions like fibromyalgia, lymphedema, insomnia, stress, fatigue, arthritis, and digestive issues. It is crucial to end the procedure with a glass of water to restore the fluid loss.