
A 2016 study investigated whether Swedish massage could reduce symptoms of GAD in people who were not receiving treatment for the disorder. Stress can exacerbate the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It may be best for people who simply require stress relief. Swedish massage is a lighter form of massage. Many people are familiar with the “karate chop” massage technique, which is one form of tapotement.
#Swedish massage vs deep tissue massage series#
Tapotement: Tapotement is a series of strikes to the body that helps relax a tense muscle.If the therapist performs it correctly, it can feel very relaxing for the entire body. Vibration: Vibration is a stroke that involves rapid, superficial movements of the fingertips or palms.Petrissage: Petrissage uses a squeezing technique and lifts the muscle to help release tension.This heat promotes circulation in the area and eases tension. Friction: Friction strokes are short, fast strokes that create heat as the hands or fingers rub against the body.Besides being deeply relaxing, these strokes allow the massage therapist to feel the general muscle tone and identify any problem areas that need work. Effleurage: This massage movement involves long, gentle, rhythmic strokes across the skin.Swedish massage uses five basic strokes, which form the basis of many other types of massage therapy. Swedish massage involves long, gliding strokes in combination with kneading and friction to release surface tension. As a result, deep tissue massage is typically not for relaxation or stress relief.

To achieve this, the therapist must apply greater pressure, and this can cause some discomfort. It can leave a person feeling rejuvenated.ĭeep tissue massage is mainly for working out deep muscle tension or aiding recovery from a muscle strain. The light-to-moderate pressure is good for relieving light muscle tension and stress. Swedish massage is a popular massage for relaxation. The massage types also vary in their intended uses. It may be too strong for people who simply want a relaxing massage.

In contrast, deep tissue massage applies much more pressure to release tension deep within the muscles and fascia. This style generally provides a more relaxing experience, but the pressure may not be enough for some people. Swedish massage involves long strokes using light-to-firm pressure. The massage types also vary in the degree of pressure that the therapist applies.

This intensity helps release tension in the deeper layers of muscle and in the connective tissues, or fascia, beneath the muscles. Swedish massage uses a series of light, long strokes to ease surface tension and stimulate circulation in the muscles.ĭeep tissue massage may include strokes similar to those of Swedish massage, but the therapist will apply the strokes more forcefully. Share on Pinterest Swedish massage and deep tissue massage have distinct differences.
