Massage Therapy: Benefits, Types, Costs, and More

Your eyes are closed, and you feel weightless. You've drifted away on the sound of deep chimes and the citrus fragrance of candles and lotion. You feel warm, safe, practically melted. Your worries fade as your massage therapist gently works the tension from your muscles. Is there anything better than a massage?

Massage spas offer many different types of massages and other wellness treatments that can help you de-stress and go back to your daily life energized, rejuvenated, and ready for whatever crisis (big or small) may come next.

What is massage therapy?

Massage is a type of treatment (therapy) in which a trained professional uses different methods to relieve the tension in your body's muscles, tendons, other connective tissue, soft tissue and skin.

The certified professionals who perform massage therapy are called massage therapists.²

These trained professionals study the human body, including body mechanics, massage ethics, massage techniques, anatomy, and physiology. They must then practice their craft before they can apply for a state license. In short, these experts have the knowledge and training to provide you with the many benefits a massage can offer.

Health benefits of massage therapy

Massages can not only feel great but can be an investment in your health. There is evidence that massages:

• Increase relaxation
• Reduce stress, pain, and muscle tension
• Lower blood pressure and heart rate
• Improve immune function, circulation, and energy

Further study is needed, but early research indicates massages may also improve conditions like anxiety, digestive disorders, fibromyalgia, migraine headaches, and insomnia.⁴

What happens during massage therapy?

You've checked into the spa, had your first few sips of cucumber water, and are waiting in a quiet room. What happens next?

Typically, before your massage, you will be asked to undress to the level you're comfortable with and lay down on a massage table under a sheet. Don't worry; your massage therapist will keep you draped, only uncovering the area on which they're working. They may ask you how you feel and if you have any areas of tension or pain to focus on.

During the session, your massage therapist may play calming music and use lotion or oil to reduce friction as they apply pressure to your muscles in smooth, even motions. Depending on the type of massage, they may use a combination of:

• Kneading
• Deep, circular motions
• Vibration and tapping
• Rhythmic pressure
• Stretching

What are the different types of massages?

So, now that we've demystified what happens during a massage, let's dive into the specifics. What kind of massage should you get? The answer depends on what you hope to experience and which benefits you want to receive.

Swedish Massage

When people envision a relaxing, calming massage, they may be thinking of a Swedish massage. This type of massage involves gentle manipulation of the muscles. It's great for people who are new to massage, sensitive to touch, or worried about too much pressure. Swedish massages often last 60-90 minutes.

Hot Stone Massage

If you have pain or tension or are looking for a very relaxing massage, a hot stone may be your best option. During a hot stone massage, heated stones are placed along your body. The heat from the stones helps loosen muscles and relieve tension. This type of massage typically lasts around 90 minutes.⁵

Aromatherapy Massage

Are you feeling sad, stressed, or in need of some spiritual/emotional healing? An aromatherapy therapy massage combines the use of breathing in diffused essential oils with a gentle massage. This type of massage can help boost your mood while relieving stress and tension. You can expect it to last between 60 and 90 minutes.⁵

Deep Tissue Massage

If you have injuries, back pain, or chronic muscle soreness, a deep tissue massage can help relieve the tightness in your muscles. During a deep tissue massage, your massage therapist will press deeply through the layers of muscle and tissues. This kind of massage is not a good option if you are touch-sensitive or looking for something gentle. You can expect a deep tissue massage to last 60-90 minutes.⁵

Shiatsu Massage

Similar to a Swedish massage, a Shiatsu massage can help you feel relaxed and release stress and tension. During this session, your massage therapist will create rhythmic pressure with their hands, focusing on specific body points (acupressure). Your Shiatsu massage will average 60-90 minutes.⁵

Thai Massage

If the idea of laying still on a table isn't appealing to you, Thai massage may be a good option. You will be a more active participant in this type of massage as your therapist stretches and twists your body into various positions to relieve pain and pressure. Don't worry. You get to keep your comfy, loose-fitting clothing on during this 60-90 minute session.⁵

Reflexology and Acupressure

Looking to focus on your feet, head, or hands or simply short on time? A reflexology massage is like having your hair washed at the salon but amplified. Using firm but gentle pressure, your therapist will focus on restoring the natural energy levels to your body. You can also keep your (loose-fitting) clothes on during this 30-60 minute massage.⁵

How much does a massage cost?

On average, a massage may cost around $100; however, it depends on the type and length of the massage you choose (anywhere from $65 – $180). If you're interested in getting a massage more than once, ask about what kind of packages the spa has. You may find they offer reduced rates.

How can the CareCredit credit card help with massage therapy?

Ready to book your next massage? We sure are! Massage therapy has many potential health and wellness benefits for your day-to-day life. Whether your goal is to reduce stress, relieve pain, or take a much-needed pause from the daily grind, ask if they accept CareCredit. With CareCredit, you can pay over time with convenient monthly payments that help fit the services you want into your budget.*

You can use the CareCredit credit card at hundreds of thousands of healthcare providers and health-focused retail locations nationwide, including many day spas.* Use the Acceptance Locator or download the CareCredit Mobile App to find a day spa near you.

Remember that while massage therapy has many benefits, there can be risks, too, especially for those with certain medical conditions. So be sure to consult your doctor first.