Here are a selection of massage techniques used across the world:
Swedish massage involves strokes such as kneading and tapping to relieve muscle tension and to loosen sore joints. The most common basic strokes include effleurage (stroking), petrissage (muscles are grabbed and lifted) and friction (thumbs are moved in deep circles into the muscle).
Deep tissue massage concentrates on relieving tension in muscles that are deep below the surface of the body. Deep tissue massages use techniques such as stroking and direct pressure movements across the muscles. Fingers and thumbs will be used to apply the needed pressure.
Acupressure is a form of Chinese healing that involves applying pressure to certain points on the body to relieve pain. There are many different points in the body, known as ‘meridians’ that carry energy throughout the body.
Fine, sterile needles are inserted into a selection of these points and are said to balance the flow of vital energy in the body and regulate the function of the inner organs.
Acupressure can help with the following:
A Sports massage technique is mainly aimed at professionals involved in sports. These massages are similar to Swedish massages and are used before events to help warm muscles up and improve circulation. They are also used after an event to help relax and improve recovery for the sports professional (note: See a specialist for this type of massage)
A Neuromuscular massage technique involves a form of deep tissue massage that is applied to individual muscles. Its purpose is to increase blood flow, reduce pain and also release pressure on nerves. It is also used to release knots in the muscle, mainly found in the back. (note: See a specialist for this type of massage)
This massage technique was developed in the USA. It involves deep pressure on muscles and other soft tissues. It is designed to ease tension and improve posture of a person. Rolfing is known to improve performance in people’s daily activities and is also widely used by Athletes and professionals in many major sports.
The Hellawork technique is another type of Rolfing that adds both mental and movement re-education to the physical work. Sessions involve instruction on how to break bad posture habits and also you will receive a massage aimed to return muscles and other tissues to their proper positions.
The Cranisacral type of massage is focused on the skull and spinal column. Very gentle pressure is applied to the bones. The result is to reduce tension and counteract physical trauma you may have experienced to your head over the years. (note: See a specialist for this type of massage)
Reflexology is a massage used on the hands and feet by applying pressure and stimulation to these parts. It is said to increase circulation and promote specific bodily and muscular functions.
An Indian head massage is a gentle treatment applied to the neck, shoulders, upper arms and the head. It is used to aid relaxation and aid blood flow through the scalp. When feeling stressed, tension can accumulate causing problems such as stiffness in the neck and shoulders, eye strain or headaches. An Indian head massage can resolve these problems and make you feel more calm and relaxed.
This is a technique for finding and correcting cerebral and spinal imbalances or blockages that may cause sensory, motor or intellectual dysfunction.
This is a form of bodywork that is manipulative in nature and seeks to rebalance the body by releasing tension in the fascia. Long, stretching strokes are utilized to release muscular tension.
Sources: http://www.aboutmassage.com/techniques.htm