Remedial Massage vs Relaxation Massage – What’s the Difference?
While both remedial massage and relaxation massage can leave you feeling great, they are designed for very different purposes.
Relaxation massage focuses on reducing stress, promoting wellbeing, and helping the body and mind unwind. It generally uses gentle, flowing techniques across the entire body and is ideal for those wanting to relax and recharge.
Remedial massage is more clinically focused. It is designed to assess and treat specific muscular problems, injuries, tension patterns, and movement restrictions.
A remedial massage therapist will often begin by discussing your symptoms and identifying the areas contributing to your discomfort. Treatment is then tailored to your individual needs rather than following a standard routine.
Remedial massage may assist with:
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Lower back pain
- Headaches
- Sporting injuries
- Postural problems
- Muscle tightness and stiffness
- Occupational overuse injuries
Treatment may include a combination of techniques such as deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, stretching, myofascial release, and rehabilitation advice.
Many clients are surprised to discover that remedial massage can still be deeply relaxing. Although the treatment has a therapeutic focus, reducing pain and muscle tension often leaves people feeling calmer and more relaxed afterwards.
If your goal is stress relief and general relaxation, a relaxation massage may be ideal. If you’re experiencing pain, restricted movement, recurring tension, or recovering from an injury, remedial massage or myotherapy is likely to provide greater long-term benefits.
At Muscleworx Myotherapy & Massage, we can help determine which treatment approach is best suited to your needs and goals.
