massage types

There are dozens of massage therapy types and techniques, but these are a list of some commonly practiced:

SWEDISH MASSAGE uses a system of long gliding strokes, kneading, and friction techniques on the more superficial layers of muscles, generally in the direction of blood flow toward the heart, sometimes combined with active and passive movements of the joints. This system is used to promote general relaxation, improve circulation and range of motion, and relieve muscle tension. Swedish massage is the most common form of massage.

DEEP-TISSUE MASSAGE is used to release chronic patterns of muscular tension using slow strokes, direct pressure, or friction directed across the grain of the muscles with the fingers, thumbs, or elbows. It is applied with greater pressure and to deeper layers of muscle than Swedish massage.

NEUROMUSCULAR MASSAGE is a form of deep massage that is applied specifically to individual muscles. It is used to increase blood flow, release trigger points (intense knots of muscle tension that refer pain to other parts of the body), and release pressure on nerves caused by soft tissues. It is often used to reduce pain. Trigger point massage and myotherapy are similar forms. 

MANUAL LYMPH DRAINAGE improves the flow of lymph by using light, rhythmic strokes. It is primarily used for conditions related to poor lymph flow, such as edema, inflammation, and neuropathies.

STRETCHING or RANGE OF MOTION is done to increase joint mobility and improve muscle tone, and provides relief from muscle stiffness and tension.

SPORTS MASSAGE uses techniques that are similar to Swedish and deep-tissue massage but are specially adapted to deal with the needs of athletes and the effects of athletic performance on the body.


Most therapists are trained in Swedish massage, but integrate other techniques or types of bodywork into their sessions. Other techniques include: Myofascial Release, Reflexology, Reiki, Acupressure, Pregnancy and Infant massage, Geriatric massage, Shiatsu, Postural Analysis, Aromatherapy, Zone Therapy, Tuina, Rolfing (structural integration), Trager, Feldenkrais, the Alexander method, and many others.