Relaxation vs Remedial Massage: Understanding the Differences

Whether you’re seeking pure relaxation or natural pain relief, various massage techniques are available to address your needs and goals. Two popular options are relaxation and remedial. While both offer unique benefits, they differ in approach, focus, and desired outcomes.

Relaxation: Unwind and Rejuvenate

Relaxation massage, as the name suggests, primarily promotes a sense of calmness, reduces anxiety, and relieves stress. It aims to provide overall relaxation and wellbeing by employing gentle, broad strokes that cover the entire body. This type of bodywork is characterised by its slow and soothing movements, designed to induce a deep state of relaxation.

During your relaxation massage appointment, Daniel, our remedial massage therapist, uses less intense pressure and focuses on creating a serene environment. The goal is not to target specific problem areas but rather to provide a generalised experience of relaxation and tranquility. By incorporating techniques such as effleurage (long, sweeping strokes) and petrissage (kneading and rolling motions), relaxation massage helps enhance circulation, release tension, and promote a sense of overall harmony within the body.

Remedial: Addressing Pain and Muscle Dysfunction

Remedial massage specifically addresses pain, muscle dysfunction, and injuries. It involves the application of firm pressure, often using thumbs, knuckles, or elbows, to target specific problem areas and alleviate pain. One key technique used is temporary ischemic pressure, which involves applying sustained pressure to a muscle knot to induce a release.

The muscle eventually relaxes by creating a temporary lack of blood supply to the knot, then allowing improved blood flow and oxygenation to the area, promoting healing and pain relief. The remedial form of bodywork is commonly used to address conditions such as muscle strains, joint pain, and chronic muscular tension. It aims to restore function, reduce pain, and improve overall mobility.

Choosing Which Type Is Right for You

When deciding between relaxation and remedial massage, it’s important to consider your specific goals and needs. If you’re looking to unwind, reduce stress, and experience a sense of calmness, then a relaxation type may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you’re dealing with pain, muscle tightness, or specific injuries, remedial massage can provide targeted relief and promote healing.

While a relaxation form of bodywork primarily utilises manual techniques, remedial massage may incorporate additional modalities such as dry needling. However, our skilled practitioner can achieve similar results using his hands alone.