Massages can vary in technique and focus depending on the goal or reason for the massage itself. Also, the benefits are varied but generally include stress reduction, pain relief, improved flexibility, and enhanced mood.
Massages also stimulate blood flow so they can as well help in the healing process of injuries and reduce inflammation. What’s more, massages can improve sleep quality and boost the immune system. But should you see a physiotherapist (https://physioactive.sg/) for massage? Read this guide to the end to find out.
Do Physiotherapists Massage People?
Massage and physiotherapy are often mentioned on the same line. So, it is natural if you ever wonder if physiotherapists massage people.
The answer is, yes, many physiotherapists use massage therapy as part of their treatment options to help with injury rehabilitation by treating the causes of dysfunction and pain. Massage therapy focuses on a particular area or injury, and can help with; relaxation, circulation, pain reduction, and removing toxins and waste products from the body.
So even though the primary focus of physiotherapists is on movement disorders, they often incorporate massage into their treatment plans to address specific needs and goals. This is important because they are trained to use massage and soft tissue techniques, which can be highly beneficial in injury rehabilitation.
So, what is Massage in Physiotherapy?
There are several reasons why you may be recommended a massage at a physiotherapist’s clinic. If you’re just discovering that you can get a massage at the physiotherapist clinic you may wonder; what is massage in physiotherapy?
Massage in physiotherapy is a manual therapy technique that promotes healing and relieving of muscle tension. It involves skilled manipulation of soft tissues like muscles, tendons, ligaments, and skin.
This technique is deeply rooted in history, with a long-standing reputation for its therapeutic benefits. In modern physiotherapy, massage is used to improve blood circulation, reduce pain, and enhance relaxation. From sports injuries to chronic pain management, massage therapy in physiotherapy offers an all-round approach to improving physical well-being.
If you’re recommended a massage by a physiotherapist, it should be part of a treatment plan tailored to your own unique needs or individual requirements.
Here are some of the most common types of massage you can get from a physiotherapist;
Sports Massage
Involving stretching, toning, friction, and compression, sports massage is an intense manual technique applied to the body’s soft tissues. It’s ideal for managing muscular damage, overuse injuries, and reducing injury risks.
This invigorating massage can help with both acute and chronic injury management to speed up the healing process and alleviate discomfort. It can be used both for pre/post-exercise events or injury rehabilitation. In whichever case it is applied, a properly done sports massage can enhance muscle function, promote quicker recovery and improve performance.
Therapeutic Massage
Therapeutic massage blends various strokes and manipulation techniques to achieve specific therapeutic outcomes. It’s effective in stress management, pain reduction, and enhancing overall well-being.
Since therapeutic massage promotes circulation, lymph flow, and flexibility it can help accelerate recovery from muscular injuries as it flushes out lactic acid and waste products. This technique also stimulates the skin and nervous system to reduce emotional and physical stress and encourage holistic healing.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage targets deeper muscle and fascia structures. It is majorly preferred for enhancing muscular function and mobility.
It works by addressing chronic muscle tension and painful adhesions to restore range of motion and relieve discomfort. Through pressure and friction, this focused massage breaks down adhesions, improves circulation, and provides pain relief.
Deep tissue massage is instrumental in releasing muscle tension. It can help facilitate better circulation, and promote overall muscular health.
Remedial Massage
In remedial massage, the therapist uses therapeutic techniques to address muscular damage and injuries at both superficial and deeper levels. It essentially focuses on manipulation to not only restore full muscle function but also encourage the body’s healing process.
This massage is particularly effective in releasing tension, reducing painful adhesions, and restoring circulation. The pressure and friction applied during remedial massage cannot only alleviate pain but also enhance flexibility, and promote tissue healing to ensure optimal muscular health and function.
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is renowned for its relaxation benefits. It can also help reduce tension, break down adhesions, and promote lymphatic drainage.
It offers a multitude of health benefits, including maintaining physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It works by stimulating the nervous system and inducing a state of relaxation to enhance overall health and vitality. With its gentle yet effective techniques, it encourages relaxation, relieves stress, and rejuvenates both body and mind.
What Happens During a Physiotherapy Massage Session?
Physiotherapy sessions typically last between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of your condition and the treatment required. During a physiotherapy session, you can expect a comprehensive approach to treating injuries or conditions affecting your muscles, joints, or nerves.
The session usually begins with a discussion about your injury history and current symptoms. This helps the physiotherapist understand your condition better and tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs. The physiotherapist will then use a variety of techniques to address your condition effectively which may include;
- Assessment: Here, the physiotherapist will assess your range of motion, strength, and flexibility to identify areas of concern.
- Hands-on treatment: Techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilization, and trigger point therapy may be used to reduce pain and improve mobility.
- Exercise therapy: Specific exercises may be prescribed to improve strength, flexibility, and posture. These exercises are designed to address your individual needs and goals.
- Education: The physiotherapist will educate you about your condition and how to manage it effectively. This may include advice on posture, ergonomics, and self-care techniques.
- Progress monitoring: Your progress will be monitored throughout the session to ensure that the treatment is effective. Adjustments to the treatment plan may be made based on your progress.
Wrapping Up
A physiotherapist may recommend or include massage as part of your treatment program to encourage healing and help with pain management among other reasons. A good physiotherapist will be more than willing to address any concerns you may have about the condition you’re dealing with or treatment modalities they recommend so feel free to ask any question during your consultation/assessment. To schedule an appointment with a skilled physiotherapist in Singapore, we recommend that you get in touch with PhysioActive at;
PhysioActive (Orchard)
Orchard Branch at Camden Medical Centre #11-05
Singapore 248649
+656235 2647
PhsysioActive (CBD)
CBD Branch at 160 Robinson Road, #05-03
SBF Center Singapore 068914
+656438 0162
PhysioActive (Jurong)
Jurong Branch at 2 Venture Drive Vision Exchange #02-13/14
Singapore 608526
+656258 5602
PhysioActive (Novena Specialist Center)
Novena Branch at 8 Sinaran Drive Novena Specialist Center #07-12
Singapore 307470
+65 6734 4707
