What is remedial massage?

Remedial massage is a therapeutic deep tissue massage that can treat specific health issues, musculoskeletal problems and injuries. It involves the use of massage therapy and a wide range of diagnostic techniques to treat a variety of ailments. For thousands of years it was the principal method of treating musculoskeletal problems and produces both physical and psychological benefits. It also provides wonderful relaxation if you are stressed and it soothes sore, tired muscles.

How does remedial massage work?

Remedial massage is a system of manipulation of the soft tissues of the body with the hands. Because the soft tissue of the body responds to touch, we are able to manipulate, soften, stretch and increase the flexibility.

What can remedial massage treat?

Remedial massage can be used as an injury preventative technique as well as a treatment for injury. Massage works on many different levels and it is the unique way in which it combines the various benefits to suit the individual that makes it such a versatile and effective treatment method.

Remedial massage works to break down scar or fibrous tissue, restoring elasticity to the joints, create greater mobility within the joints of the body, provide overall relief of stress, promote greater immunity to further injuries of the same area, increase the blood flow, both in the area being massaged and generally, increase the lymphatic flow to and from the area treated, reducing pain, swelling and inflammation, relieve stress and tension, reduce muscle tension, thereby improving the blood supply to an area, improve muscle tone, improve general circulation, balance muscles and joints, leading to a better state of health and a general feeling of well-being.

Remedial massage can treat –

§ Stress related disorders (migraines, frozen shoulders, neurasthenia, nervous exhaustion)
§ Headaches, aches and pains
§ Sports and accidental injuries, sprains, strains, etc.
§ Post pregnancy and post surgery
§ Long-term disorders such as temporary or permanent paralysis
§ Post stroke, arthritis, poly-arthritic disorders
§ Abdominal problems such as cramps, irritable bowel, constipation
§ Back pain and shoulder problems.

What to expect at a consultation

At your first consultation, most practitioners will discuss your medical history, current condition and all other relevant factors pertaining to your injury. Your therapist may choose to use massage oil or lotion to first massage and warm the area of concern to soften the tissue, before working on the muscle at a deeper level. You may experience some discomfort especially if you are in pain when you first arrive, however this will alleviate after treatment.

You may find other areas of the body will be taken into account during treatment due the natural compensation you make with your body when you have injured yourself or are in pain or discomfort.

You will discuss ongoing treatment with your therapist if there is a need. Your therapist can provide a comprehensive treatment plan based on their assessment of the underlying cause of your problem. You may also be asked to do certain exercises at home to enhance the effectiveness or the treatment.

Find a Remedial Massage Therapist in your area.