What is remedial massage and how can it help you find relief from pain or facilitate recovery? In a nutshell, it’s a therapeutic intervention that targets sore or injured muscles through specialised techniques to promote healing and enhance mobility.
Unlike other forms of massage designed for general relaxation, remedial massage is about finding and fixing the root of the issue.
Dive into the following sections to learn about its methodology, benefits, and how it’s tailored to manage a variety of musculoskeletal conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Remedial massage is a therapeutic treatment for pain relief, mobility, and soft tissue issues. It is different from other forms of massage due to its targeted approach and its role in physiotherapy.
- Techniques used in remedial massage include deep tissue release, trigger point therapy, and myofascial release. Each addresses different issues, such as chronic tension, muscle spasms, and fascial tightness, to improve physical function.
- The benefits of remedial massage extend beyond pain relief, offering improvements in joint mobility, blood circulation, and stress reduction, with potential coverage by insurance plans, including private health insurers and NDIS.
Defining Remedial Massage
As part of an adjunct physiotherapy treatment, remedial massage is a targeted and technical form of therapy.
Known for relieving pain and improving mobility, remedial massage is used for various physical conditions and issues.
Unlike other types such as Swedish or Thai, remedial massage is much more than mere relaxation. It is a therapeutic practice that leverages an in-depth understanding of anatomy and physiology to target soft tissue problems.
Trained therapists skilled in soft tissue manipulation use this form of massage to manage various health issues, such as pain, injuries, and stress.
What is Remedial Massage?
A remedial massage is like a detective on a case, looking for clues to solve the mystery. It involves using:
- effleurage
- petrissage
- friction
- kneading
- hacking
- stretching
- joint movements
to target and repair damaged areas of the body. This treatment targets damaged tissues to stimulate healing.
Remedial massage aims to serve as a path to recovery and relief for those dealing with chronic pain or injury recovery, making remedial massage good for overall well-being. By incorporating remedial massage techniques, therapists can effectively target specific issues and provide relief.
How Remedial Massage Differs from Other Massages
If you’re used to the gentle strokes of a Swedish massage or the rhythmic pressing of a Thai massage, you might wonder how remedial massage fits into the mix.
The main difference between remedial and other massages is the therapeutic focus.
While other massages aim to relax and rejuvenate the whole body, remedial massage targets specific problem areas, making it a more targeted and therapeutic practice.
The Role of Remedial Massage in Physiotherapy
Remedial massage is a key component of physiotherapy. As a form of physiotherapy, remedial massage is often prescribed as part of a treatment plan for patients. It is administered by physiotherapists or other allied health professionals trained in this therapy.
It also empowers clients to take control of their own treatment by teaching them practical techniques that improve treatment outcomes.
Feel free to check our article about the differences between physiotherapy and remedial massage.
Techniques Used in Remedial Massage
In a remedial massage session the therapist uses a variety of techniques like a symphony to address different physical issues. These techniques:
- Deep tissue release
- Trigger point therapy
- Myofascial release
- Joint mobilisation
These techniques are tailored to your specific health issues. The aim is to find and fix issues in the muscles, tendons and bones so overall physical function improves.
Deep Tissue Massage
One of these techniques is deep-tissue massage, which, as the name suggests, goes deep. It involves:
- Applying firm pressure and strokes to access the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue
- Targeting scar tissue and chronic tension
- Adopting a rhythmic, whole-body approach
- Being considered therapeutic
While it can be uncomfortable due to the pressure, deep-tissue massage can heal muscle and tissue issues.
Trigger Point Therapy
Another tool in the remedial massage kit is trigger point therapy. This technique applies focused pressure to muscle knots/spasm (trigger points) to relieve pain and relax the muscle.
The therapist finds the trigger points that are causing pain and applies pressure to them, then stretches and re-educates the muscle to prevent the issue from happening again.
Myofascial Release
The last technique is myofascial release. This method targets the fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscles and organs to relieve tension and restrictions.
With gentle, sustained pressure, the therapist works to release these restrictions and restore balance to the fascia.
Benefits of Remedial Massage
Remedial massage offers a wide range of benefits, which contribute to its magic. Some of the benefits include:
- Significant pain relief
- Improved joint mobility
- Healthier blood circulation
- Relaxation, leading to improved body alignment and posture
The therapeutic benefits of relaxation massages can be enjoyed by those with specific issues or everyday aches and pains so this relaxation massage is a popular choice.
Pain Relief and Muscle Function Improvement
Like a superhero, remedial massage helps those with common complaints like neck, shoulder, back pain, muscle cramps and conditions like arthritis and frozen shoulder.
By increasing flexibility, circulation and reducing muscle tension it helps improve muscle function and body alignment.
Remedial massage therapists may even give you exercises to do at home to help with faster recovery and ongoing muscle function.
Better Blood Circulation and Immune System Support
Another benefit of remedial massage is the increased blood flow. This increases your immune system and joint mobility. It’s like a health booster shot for your body, for better health and energy.
Stress Relief and Mental Wellbeing
Beyond physical benefits remedial massage is a stress and mental tension balm. Regular sessions will lead to long term improvements in overall wellbeing.
The empathy and compassion of a remedial massage therapist can help with stress reduction and mental health.
Choosing a Remedial Massage Therapist
Selecting the right remedial massage therapist is just as important as the treatment itself. You should look for a professional with the following qualities:
- A strong track record
- Punctuality
- Reliability
- Strict adherence to ethical standards
But how do you ensure you’re making the right choice?
Credentials and Experience
Firstly, focus on the therapist’s credentials and experience. A skilled therapist should have:
- A minimum of 500 hours of training from an accredited institution
- Registration with professional associations
- A history of positive outcomes
- Client references or testimonials to affirm their expertise.
Personal Comfort and Trust
Secondly comfort and trust. You need to feel comfortable with your therapist and they need to be able to communicate well, understand your needs and explain the treatment clearly.
Recommendations and Reviews
Finally, consider personal recommendations and reviews. Personal referrals from friends or healthcare providers can be a particularly reliable source for identifying a skilled remedial massage therapist.
Ready to experience the benefits of remedial massage for yourself? Book an appointment with our skilled remedial massage therapists, Sana and Olivia, at The Alignment Studio today.
Your Remedial Massage Appointment: What to Expect
What should one expect when walking in for a remedial massage appointment? The session begins with a thorough assessment of your health history followed by a physical examination. This helps the therapist develop a customised treatment plan, incorporating various techniques specific to your needs.
Health Assessment and Treatment Plan
The first session is all about you, the therapist will assess your health history and current issues to inform the treatment. This assessment includes looking at your posture, flexibility and muscle strength to find out what’s causing your discomfort or pain. Based on this a treatment plan will be developed and explained to you.
The focus extends beyond the treatment session to include an at-home treatment plan, ensuring continuous care and progression towards recovery.
Techniques and Pressure Levels
The treatment itself is a dynamic process, with the therapist tailoring techniques and pressure levels to meet your individual needs. Feedback provided during the session guides the therapist in continually adjusting the treatment plan, ensuring a customised experience for you.
Aftercare and Follow-up
After the treatment the therapist will do a reassessment, document the treatment and any recommendations for future care.
You may experience some muscle soreness or stiffness after a remedial massage therapy session, this is normal and usually resolves within a few days.
Insurance Coverage and Remedial Massage
If you’re wondering if remedial massage is covered by insurance, the good news is yes it can be. Including the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
NDIS Coverage
If you’re an NDIS participant you may be eligible for remedial massage as part of your long term disability treatment plan. But you need to consult with NDIS planners or health practitioners to discuss your health needs related to your disability.
Private Health Insurance
On the other hand, most private health insurance extras policies in Australia cover remedial massage therapy. However, it’s always wise to confirm with your provider to ensure coverage.
Summary
From pain relief and muscle function to stress reduction and mental wellbeing remedial massage is a powerful therapy. By choosing the right therapist and knowing what to expect you’re all set to get the most out of this therapy.
Ready to experience the benefits of remedial massage for yourself? Book an appointment at The Alignment Studio today and take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free life. Schedule Your Appointment Now
Remedial Massage FAQ
Yes, remedial massage can be covered by insurance, including the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and most private health insurance extras policies in Australia.
Remedial massage provides pain relief, improved joint mobility, enhanced blood circulation, and stress reduction. These benefits can help improve overall well-being.
Remedial massage is a therapy that addresses and repairs damaged areas of the body using various techniques.
Remedial massage involves targeted rehabilitation techniques for specific ‘problem areas’, while regular massage is often a whole-body treatment. It is also typically part of an ongoing plan with a series of treatment sessions, rather than a one-off treat.
Yes, remedial massage is worth it as it can increase circulation, improve joint mobility, and stimulate tissue repair, leading to potential health benefits.
