What is Remedial Massage Therapy?
Remedial massage therapy is a targeted, therapeutic form of massage designed to assess and treat musculoskeletal pain, dysfunction, and injuries. Unlike relaxation massage, which focuses on general stress relief, remedial massage aims to identify the root cause of pain and restore optimal function to muscles, joints, and soft tissues.
How It Differs from Other Massage Types
Massage
Remedial
Swedish
(Relaxation)
Deep Tissue
Sports
Focus
Root cause of
dysfunction
Stress relief,
circulation
Chronic muscle
tension
Pre/post-event
performance
Pressure
Moderate to
deep
Light to
moderate
Firm
Variable
Goal
Restore function,
reduce pain
Promote
relaxation
Release deep
knots
Enhance recovery,
prevent injury
Why It Works
Breaks down scar tissue and adhesions.
Improves blood flow to heal damaged areas.
Resets muscle length-tension balance for better posture.
Reduces nerve compression (e.g., sciatica, tingling limbs).
Common Conditions Remedial Massage Can Help
✔ Muscle & Joint Pain (e.g., back/neck pain, sciatica)
✔ Sports Injuries (strains, sprains, tendonitis)
✔ Postural Dysfunction (desk-related stiffness, scoliosis)
✔ Headaches & TMJ Issues (linked to neck/shoulder tension)
✔ Recovery Post-Surgery (scar tissue management)
✔ Repetitive Strain Injuries (e.g., carpal tunnel, tennis elbow)
Who Benefits from Remedial Massage?
Athletes
(improving performance/recovery)
Office Workers
(combating "tech neck" or lower back pain)
Chronic Pain Sufferers
(e.g., arthritis, fibromyalgia support)
Post-Injury/Surgery Patients
(rehabilitating tissues)
Key Principles of Remedial Massage
Assessment-Based
A thorough evaluation (posture, range of motion, palpation) helps pinpoint issues like muscle imbalances, scar tissue, or nerve compression.
Problem-Specific Treatment
Techniques are tailored to the individual’s condition (e.g., sports injury, chronic pain, post-surgery recovery).
Evidence-Informed Techniques
Combines modalities like deep tissue, trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and stretching to address dysfunction.
Rehabilitation Focus
Aims to improve mobility, reduce pain, and prevent recurrence through corrective exercises or self-care advice.
What to Expect in a Session
1. Consultation – Discuss medical history, pain patterns, and goals.
2. Assessment – Postural analysis, movement tests, and palpation.
3. Treatment – Hands-on techniques (e.g., targeted pressure, stretching).
4. Aftercare – Home exercises, ergonomic advice, or follow-up plans.