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Updated: What is massage therapy?

Did you know that massages are more than just a treat? They are also a great way to keep your body and mind healthy. It is used by approximately 47.5 million people in the U.S., and those people had a total of 214 million massages.

Why do so many people love massage therapy and visit massage places in Omaha? Our team has rounded up its benefits and the different types of massage therapy available.  

What is massage therapy? 

Massage therapy is performed by a certified massage therapist. This kind of treatment is the manual manipulation of soft body tissues to enhance a person’s health and well-being. It’s integrative medicine, which means it is often offered alongside other treatments. 

How does massage therapy work

A massage therapist will typically ask you to lie down on a massage table. Lying down allows the massage therapist to work more easily on your back. Once you’re laid down, the massage therapist will begin to rub and manipulate your soft tissues. 

Through this kind of touch, your body will trigger relaxation and mechanical responses. The relaxation response relaxes your body’s muscles and decreases the production of stress hormones. While the mechanical responses increase your blood circulation and reduce the tension in muscles. This helps reduce inflammation and pain. 

Massage therapy benefits

There is more to a massage than just helping you relax. There are plenty of reasons why people are incorporating massages into their routines. Why do people love massage therapy so much? Because of its benefits. Here is a list of some of the benefits that massage therapy can offer: 

The types of massage therapy 

Deep tissue massage

This kind of massage realigns the deep layers and connective tissue. A massage therapist will apply moderate to deep pressure on the inner muscles and connective tissues. Deep tissue massages are ideal for relieving chronic pain, healing sports injuries and improving posture. 

Swedish massage

A Swedish massage is the most common kind of massage. It uses soft strokes on the upper muscles. This kind of massage uses long and kneading strokes. Swedish massage is perfect for reducing stress, healing injuries and relieving body pains. 

Pregnancy massage 

A pregnancy massage, also referred to as prenatal massage, is a massage designed for pregnant women. Massage therapists perform this massage with the help of a special bed that supports the woman’s belly. It uses careful strokes and pressure. Pregnancy massages are used to relieve lower back pain, decrease swelling and improve sleep. 

Hot stone massage

Hot stone massages use heated stones in combination with a massage. These stones are heated and placed on certain areas of the body. This kind of massage is perfect for relieving pain and reducing anxiety and stress. 

Sugar scrub massage

A sugar scrub massage is a type of massage that exfoliates the skin while smoothing away tension. It is beneficial for the skin and body. Sugar scrub massages are perfect for exfoliating the skin, reducing stress and hydrating the skin. 

Aromatherapy massage

Aromatherapy massages use Swedish massage techniques in combination with essential oils. Each different scent of essential oil comes with a specific health aspect. The benefits of aromatherapy massage include - relaxation, mood booster, reducing pain and inflammation. 

Visit one of the best massage places in Omaha!

Now that you know the different types of massage therapy available, it’s time to find a massage place! At Wisniewski Chiropractic, our massage therapists can help you find the perfect massage for you. They were also given Omaha’s Choice Award for massage therapy! Set up your appointment with us today!