Massage therapy is a valuable tool for providing both pain relief and relaxation. While medical massages and spa massages offer many of the same benefits, understanding the distinctions between the two can help you identify which is best suited to your needs. Use the guide below to learn more about medical and spa massage and how to decide which is right for you. 

Spa Massage

There are numerous types of spa massage, including Swedish, deep tissue, and hot stone. Each provides unique benefits, such as relief from stress, tension, or minor aches and pains. While a spa massage can ease pain and discomfort associated with conditions like inflammation, arthritis, or chronic back pain, overall, it’s meant to serve as a form of relaxation rather than a treatment.

Spa massage promotes relaxation by providing a comfortable, serene environment. Often, dim lighting, soft music, and aromatherapy techniques are employed to help individuals feel at ease and to reduce symptoms of anxiety. While both spa and medical massage therapists require training, spa massage education is less extensive, as advanced medical knowledge is not required for certification.

Medical Massage Therapy

Unlike a spa massage, medical massage therapy is often prescribed by a doctor or other healthcare provider as a form of treatment for specific medical issues. Medical massage is performed by a licensed massage therapist (LMT) who has typically received advanced training in anatomy, physiology, and treatment modalities.

LMBTs typically work in hospitals, medical clinics, or chiropractic offices rather than health or day spas. They work closely with physicians or other healthcare specialists to understand the underlying cause of an injury or illness and apply massage treatments for that problem. Medical massage is used to provide relief from a wide variety of issues, including sports or medical injuries, cancer, chronic pain, and fibromyalgia. It can help promote healing and circulation and improve function. 

For healing and restorative massage, contact Hands-On Health Massage & Physical Therapy in High Point, NC. With years of experience, their team provides a variety of services, including both medical massage and physical therapy to promote healing and relaxation. Contact them today at (336) 906-2040 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their services.