Massage therapists manipulate the body’s soft tissues and joints to help relieve discomfort, support recovery, and promote overall wellness. They may use their hands, fingers, forearms, elbows, and other techniques during a massage session. Depending on the type of massage, therapists may also use lotions, massage oils, or essential oils and provide treatment on a massage table or chair.

Massage therapy can help promote circulation and support healthy blood flow to the body’s tissues. It can help relieve muscle tension and discomfort while improving mobility, flexibility, and range of motion. Massage may also help reduce myofascial tension, support lymphatic circulation, and improve the mobility of soft tissues and scar tissue.

Massage therapy can be especially beneficial for relieving stress and promoting relaxation. By reducing soft-tissue discomfort associated with everyday and occupational stress, muscular overuse, physical activity, and certain chronic pain conditions, massage therapy can help enhance your overall sense of physical and emotional well-being and improve your quality of life.