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What Types Of Massage Are Best For Repetitive Stress Injuries?

If you're one of the many people who suffer from repetitive stress injuries, you may be looking for relief. Massage is a great way to get that relief, but which type of massage is best for your specific injury? Keep reading to learn more about the different types of massage and how they can help you recover from a repetitive stress injury.

What Types Of Massage Are Best For Repetitive Stress Injuries?

Swedish massage


  • Swedish massage uses a variety of strokes, including: long gliding strokes, kneading, tapping, friction, and shaking or vibrating movements. These movements help to increase the circulation of blood and lymphatic fluids in the body, as well as release toxins from the muscles.

  • Swedish massage is often used to promote relaxation and ease stress and tension headaches. It can also be used to relieve pain associated with arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and more.

  • Swedish massage is not recommended for pregnant women or people who are pregnant. If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, please consult your doctor before receiving a Swedish massage.

  • If you have any other health concerns or are taking any medications, please consult your doctor before receiving a Swedish massage. Swedish massage is not recommended for people with: cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or any other chronic health condition. If you have any acute illness (such as a cold or flu), it is best to wait until you are feeling better before receiving a Swedish massage.


Deep Tissue Massage


  • Deep tissue massage is a type of massage that focuses on the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue in the body. It is often used to relieve pain and stiffness in the muscles and joints, and to reduce inflammation.

  • Deep tissue massage can also be used to treat chronic conditions such as tension headaches, TMJ disorders, and fibromyalgia. The goal of deep tissue massage is to release the adhesions (stuck together tissues) in the muscles and connective tissues, and to break up any scar tissue that has formed. This will allow the muscles and tissues to move more freely, and will help to reduce pain and inflammation.

  • Deep tissue massage is usually done with the person lying on their back or stomach, but it can also be done with the person sitting or standing. The therapist will use slow, deep strokes and pressure to reach the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. Deep tissue massage is not for everyone, and it should not be used if you have any open wounds or rashes, or if you are pregnant. If you have any questions about whether or not deep tissue massage is right for you, please consult with your doctor before booking a session.


Sports Massage


is a form of bodywork geared toward participants in athletics. It is used to help prevent injuries, to prepare the body for athletic activity and maintain it in optimal condition, and to help athletes recover from workouts and injuries. Sports massage has three basic forms: pre-event massage, post-event massage, and maintenance massage.


  • Pre-event sports massage is given within the four hours preceding an event to improve performance and help decrease injuries. It is used as a supplement to an athlete's warm-up to enhance circulation and reduce excess muscle and mental tension prior to competition. It is normally shorter (10-15 minutes) than a regular conditioning massage, and focuses on warming-up the major muscles to be used, and getting the athlete in a good mental state for competition. It also improves tissue pliability, readying the athlete for top performance. Certain massage techniques can help calm a nervous athlete, and others can be stimulating.

  • Pre-event sports massage is given in a competitive environment to improve endurance and performance. It consists of brisk effleurage to stimulate and warm the muscles and petrissage to help muscles move fluidly and to reduce muscle tension. Effleurage is generally a relaxing stroke , but when done briskly it is stimulating. As the massage progresses, the pressure increases as the massage therapist uses percussive strokes and cupping to stimulate the muscles to contract and flex. The part of the body being massaged varies from sport to sport, although leg and back muscles are common targets for this type of massage.

  • Post-event sports massage is given after a competition and is mainly focused on recovery. It is geared toward reducing the muscle spasms and metabolic build-up that occur with vigorous exercise. Recovery after competition involves not only tissue normalization and repair, but also general relaxation and mental calming. A recovery session might be 15 minutes to 11/2 hours in length.

  • Post-event sports massage is given after a race or workout to rebuild injured, fatigued, or strained muscles. However, it can also be used as a preventative measure to avoid cramping or other overuse injuries.

  • A maintenance massage is a type of massage that is specifically designed to help maintain the health and functionality of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It is often used by athletes to prevent injuries and keep their bodies in top condition. Maintenance massages can also be helpful for people who have jobs that require them to stand or sit for long periods of time. This type of massage can help to improve circulation and reduce the risk of developing Musculoskeletal disorders.

Are You Searching for a Massage Therapist You Can Trust?

The Sanctuary Pleasant Hill LLC features a full range of services that are done using touch-based therapy. Our skilled therapists use their hands to manipulate the soft tissues of your body in order to relieve pain, improve health conditions, and promote wellness through holistic treatments like massage therapy! Located in the beautiful Contra Costa area, The Sanctuary is a Holistic Healing Center that specializes in exceptional treatments. Our aim is to nurture and relax each of our guests with individualized and innovative therapeutic techniques. We provide a quiet restful space to help you escape from stress and invigorate your spirit. The choice of how to move forward on your journey is a personal decision, honored without judgment. Start your journey with us today, click here to schedule your appointment!

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