How is Medical Massage Therapy Different than Spa Massage?
While both types of massage apply pressure to your body, a medical massage is different in three ways:
1.
It’s outcome-based.
In addition to stress relief and relaxation, a medical massage focuses on a medical need. It is often used to manage pain, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, relieve nerve compression, improve digestion, increase flexibility or treat other health care concerns
2.
It targets your needs through a variety of techniques.
Though Spa Massage and Medical Massage may feel similar, their techniques differ. During a Spa Massage, the techniques likely focus on relaxation. Medical Massage Therapists use a broader set of therapies for muscle health and recovery.
3.
It includes specific follow-up recommendations.
A medical massage therapist will provide a targeted treatment plan, along with recommendations for a series of timed visits versus a periodic spa visit.
Mathies 2018; Massage, For the Health of It
