How often should I get a Thai massage?

For this kind of massage, the therapist places warmed stones on certain areas of the body, such as acupressure points. The stones may be used as massage tools or be temporarily left in place. Used along with other massage techniques, hot stones can be quite soothing and relaxing as they transmit heat deep into the body.

During the massage, you’ll either lie on your side or on a specially designed table with a cutout for your belly. If you’ve had pain in your calves or other parts of your leg, see a doctor before you have a massage.

Massage can be a way to feel better physically and mentally. Explore different types of massages with different massage professionals to find what works best for your needs.

You can either do lymphatic draining massage at your home, or hire someone to help you. Always consult your doctor before trying this.

A 2021 study of 17 studies discovered that MLD can be used in the early stages after breast cancer surgery to prevent lymphedema from progressing to clinical lymphedema. However it may not be effective for mild to severe lymphedema.

Deep tissue massage is best for giving attention to certain painful, stiff "trouble spots" in your body. The massage therapist uses slow, deliberate strokes that focus pressure on layers of muscles, tendons, or other tissues deep under your skin. Though less rhythmic than other types of massage, deep tissue massage may be therapeutic -- relieving chronic patterns of tension and helping with muscle injuries, such as back sprain.

Ever wondered what cupping therapy was? Continue reading to find out more about this alternative therapy and what you can expect during treatment.

Other studies have found that Thai massage reduces back pain associated with trigger points — tight, painful muscle clusters — in the upper back.

In several small studies involving patients with chronic headaches, researchers found that Thai massage reduced the intensity of both migraine and tension headaches.

In Japanese, shiatsu means "finger pressure." For shiatsu massage, the therapist uses varied, rhythmic pressure on certain precise points of the body. These points are called acupressure points, and they are believed to be important for the flow of the body's vital energy, called chi. Proponents say shiatsu massage can help relieve blockages at these acupressure points.

Swedish massage therapy is the most popular type of massage. This massage therapy uses long, soft, kneading strokes as well as light rhythmic tapping strokes on the topmost layers of the muscles. It can also be combined with movement of joints. Swedish therapy is a relaxing and energizing method that relieves muscle tension. It can even be used to treat injuries.

Prenatal massage can be a safe way for women to get a massage during pregnancy. It can help reduce pregnancy body aches, reduce stress, and ease muscle tension.