Not all Massages are Equal

I meet people all the time whom are confused about what “type” of massage to get.  Many have heard of Swedish Massage and Deep Tissue Massage.  They may think they want a Swedish Massage, but really want a Deep Tissue Massage. Learn the difference between these two types of massage and let your therapist know what “type” of massage you want next time!

Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage Differences

Massage Therapy Relaxes Your Nerve System

Swedish Massage

• Very gentle strokes
• Long gliding strokes
• Promotes relaxation, improves blood flow and relieves muscular tension
• Promotes blood flow in the direction of the heart
• May include gentle range of motion of joints

Deep Tissue Massage

• Detailed and focused to “trouble spots” in the body
• Slow strokes
• Focuses on muscle layers, tendons and ligaments deep under the skin
• Use of forearms, thumbs and elbows
• Less rhythmic
• Relieves chronic patterns of tension
• Injury work

Many times, both massage techniques are used together in the massage session   As a massage therapist, I always ask the client what they want to “focus on” or “get out” of their session.  For some it is relaxation, others have chronic tight muscles that they want worked out.  And, for many, it is a combination of a Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage. Every massage I give is tailored to what the client wants.  This may include any combination of relaxing Swedish Massage, along with some firmer pressure and deep tissue work.

Read more here about the difference between Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage.

If you have any questions about Swedish and Deep Tissue Massage, I would be happy to answer them.  Massage Hours are Monday- Thursday mornings, as well as Thursday evenings.

Yours in Health,

Suzanne Sarro RN BSN LMT