What Is Therapeutic Massage?
When you visit a physical therapist, your treatment may include both active therapies (where you actively participate) and passive therapies (where the therapist applies treatment to you). One highly effective passive treatment offered by physical therapists is therapeutic massage. Unlike what many might think, physical therapists are trained in massage therapy techniques and can use them as part of your care—sometimes even covered by health insurance.
Request an AppointmentTherapeutic massage uses various manual techniques performed by your therapist’s hands to target specific tissues such as muscles, fascia, lymph nodes, joints, and tendons. Common techniques include:
- Deep Tissue Massage: Focuses on the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue, great for athletes or anyone needing to relieve deep muscle tension.
- Swedish Massage: A gentler massage targeting superficial tissues, ideal for relaxation and stress relief both mentally and physically.
- Pressure Point Massage: Targets tender spots within the body’s fascial tissue to release tension and restore movement.
Who Can Benefit from Massage Therapy?
Therapeutic massage is safe and beneficial for people of all ages—from toddlers to seniors. Its benefits include:
- Improved circulation and lymphatic drainage
- Faster healing and tissue recovery
- Reduced swelling and inflammation
- Increased range of motion
- Pain reduction
- Decreased scar tissue and adhesions
- Lowered stress levels
- Enhanced mood and mental well-being
We often use therapeutic massage to help manage or recover from conditions such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, migraines, diabetic neuropathy, sports or accident injuries, and even psychological conditions like anxiety and depression. It can also ease chemotherapy side effects and support post-surgical healing.
What to Expect During Your Therapeutic Massage
At your first visit, expect a thorough examination and patient history review. Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes. If massage is part of your treatment plan, you’ll be positioned comfortably—seated or lying down—depending on the area being treated. Your privacy and dignity are always respected, with appropriate draping used during the session.
Your therapist may also use oils or lotions infused with essential oils to enhance relaxation and therapeutic benefits through aromatherapy combined with gentle touch and smooth movements.
Our physical therapists will listen to your concerns and work closely with you to promote healing on every level. We focus not just on symptom relief but also on identifying and addressing the root causes to provide lasting improvement.
Interested in Therapeutic Massage?
If you think therapeutic massage might be right for you (chances are it is), contact us at Greenwood, IN center to schedule an initial appointment with one of our experienced physical therapists.