If you’re looking for natural pain management options, consider learning more about different massage techniques and their benefits. These treatments can alleviate the symptoms of many afflictions, from sore muscles to a stiff back. Below is a basic guide to some popular massage types as well as the advantages of each.

What Is a Swedish Massage?

A Swedish massage is an ideal treatment for individuals who are newer to this type of therapy and have muscle tension or knots to relieve. The appointments typically last anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes and are gentler forms of massage therapy. During a Swedish massage, you may experience a combination of kneading, deep circular motions, flowing strokes, and passive joint movement techniques. Along with helping you relax and work out muscle stiffness, Swedish massages can increase blood flow, flexibility, and improve your immune system.

How Do Hot Stone Massages Differ From Other Types?

While the actual technique is similar to a Swedish massage, hot stone massages add a heating element that provides additional pain management benefits. This relaxing treatment involves slow strokes to gently loosen tense muscles while heated stones are placed along different areas of the body with low amounts of pressure. The combination of kneading and heat allows your body to relax sooner and aids in pain relief. A hot stone massage can last anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes.

How Does Shiatsu Help With Pain Management?

A form of Japanese massage, shiatsu is recommended to reduce stress, alleviate pain, and work out sore muscles. Appointments are often 30 to 90 minutes in length and can be used to treat the whole body or provide extra attention to certain areas that need additional work. During shiatsu, a professional will use their hands and palms to stimulate muscles in a circular motion, often utilizing pressure points to alleviate tension.    

For holistic and natural approaches to pain management, talk with the professionals at Hastings Family Chiropractic in Adams County, NE. With more than 25 years of experience helping individuals alleviate their aches and pains, the chiropractors on staff offer services ranging from adjustments to massage therapy. To learn more about how these experts can give you much-needed pain relief, visit them online or call (402) 463-1955.