From Relaxation to Recovery: Understanding Massage Therapy vs. Physical Therapy

Are aches and pains starting to slow you down? Instead of relying on pain relief medication, schedule a massage or a visit with a physical therapist. As many as 28% of American adults have had a massage in the past year. 

Nearly 90% believe massages are beneficial to overall health and wellness. Not sure how to choose between massage therapy and physical therapy? Read on to learn about both before scheduling your appointment! 

What Is Massage Therapy?

Using manual muscle manipulation, massage therapy involves manipulating soft tissue for pain management. These therapeutic techniques can relieve stress and induce relaxation.

About 92% of consumers say massage therapy is effective at reducing their pain. Another 83% believe it should be considered as a form of healthcare. About 35% of patients say their doctors recommend massage therapy for pain relief.

Massage therapy can help patients who are:

• Struggling to find pain relief
• Dealing with depression or anxiety
• Recovering from injuries
• Pregnant
• Recovering from sports injuries

The main goal of massage therapy is to target and heal painful areas. Massage techniques can help release tension and improve your flexibility. 

Massage therapists operate holistically. Their therapeutic techniques can benefit the mind and body. They can provide advice on ergonomics, posture, and techniques for living a healthier life.

As part of an overall wellness lifestyle, massages can help improve your mobility and range of motion. These improvements can benefit your mood, outlook, and quality of life. If you want to relieve tension and relax, massage therapy is the right fit for you.

It’s important to note that there are different types of massage therapy available. You should consult an experienced massage therapist to determine which method best suits your needs.

Hot Stone Massages

In addition to using their hands, your massage therapist will apply heated stones to your affected areas. Hot stone massages can:

• Improve blood flow
• Relieve stress
• Alleviate pain
• Ease muscle tension

Your massage therapist may combine your hot stone massage with a Swedish massage. 

Swedish Massages

Swedish massages are gentle, full-body massages. They’re used to release muscle knots and promote relaxation.

Consider scheduling a Swedish massage during your first session. They’re less intimidating than other massage methods.

Sports Massages

Repetitive movements as a result of athletic activity can affect your performance and cause pain. As part of your training, your coach may send you to a sports massage therapist. Sports massages can relieve pain symptoms by targeting specific areas. 

Massages can also help you relax before a major sporting event. 

Shiatsu Massages

Shiatsu massages are a Japanese style of massage therapy. They help relieve pain and ease muscle tension to promote relaxation. 

The deep kneading motions involved can ease knots caused by tension. Sessions could also help improve your sleep quality. 

Deep Tissue Massages

Deep tissue massages involve more pressure than Swedish massages. They’re ideal for people with:

• Soreness
• Tightness
• An imbalance

Consider scheduling a deep tissue massage if you’ve sustained a muscle injury. 

Aromatherapy Massages

During an aromatherapy massage, your provider will use essential oils while massaging your body. These oils are chosen based on your distinct goals.

Some essential oils can provide pain relief. Others can ease feelings of depression and anxiety by offering a mood boost.

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is ideal for patients who need rehabilitation after an accident or injury. Sessions can improve strength and mobility over time.

Some physical therapists specialize in helping athletes who have sustained a sports injury. They can also help patients after a car accident. Their specialized care can help resolve your pain symptoms at the source of the problem.

Physical therapy uses exercise and physical activity to restore movement and strength. It’s also called rehabilitation or physical medicine. Additionally, some physical therapists engage in soft tissue manipulation.

You can use the exercises your physical therapist provides both in their office and at home. These exercises will target specific areas affected after an injury, surgery, or both. 

The goal of physical therapy is to restore your lifestyle. Training and strengthening your body can help prevent relapses. Your physical therapist will use a mix of techniques, including:

• Active therapy (exercises and stretches)
• Heat or ice therapy
• Manual therapy

Your physical therapist will design a customized treatment plan based on your particular needs. This plan can help provide long-term pain relief.

If you want to treat a specific pain problem (such as neck, back, knee, or shoulder pain), visit a physical therapist. 

Massage Therapy vs Physical Therapy

Whether you need massage or physical therapy will depend on your injuries and goals. Consult a professional to help you make an informed choice. Here are a few similarities and differences to consider before your first appointment. 

Similarities

Both massage and physical therapists use hands-on soft tissue mobilization techniques. Their primary goals are similar: to relieve tension and pain. 

Sessions with either can help you feel relaxed. Resolving pain symptoms can improve your quality of life.

Differences

Physical therapy is usually prescribed by a doctor. They may recommend physical therapy if you have issues with strength, mobility, or range of motion. With massage therapy, you can find a provider on your own. 

The goals of massage therapy are relaxation and pain relief. Your massage therapist will use their hands and tools (lotions, hot stones, etc.) to achieve these goals. 

Physical therapists treat soft tissue to improve mobility and relieve pain. They focus on underlying systems, including soft tissue, joint mobility, and strength. Their primary goals include decreasing pain and improving daily function.

Schedule a Massage for Pain Relief Today

How do you choose between massage therapy and physical therapy? It depends on your needs and goals. Consult a licensed professional to determine which therapeutic techniques can best support your recovery.

Eager to schedule your first massage? At Faces Spa, our goal is to transport you to another place, allowing you to leave stress at the door. We’re dedicated to making you look and feel better.

Our knowledgeable, talented, and professional team is here to help you accomplish your goals. We offer a range of massage therapy services to help you feel rested and relaxed. Enjoy a massage at our upscale spa where everything we do is designed to pamper you!

Book an appointment online or give us a call at (402) 384-8400 to benefit from some of these amazing results.