Medical massage is outcome-based massage, primarily the application of a specific treatment targeted to the specific problem the patient presents with a diagnosis and are administered after a thorough assessment/evaluation by the medical massage therapist with specific outcomes being the basis for treatment.

What does a medical massage therapist do?

A medical massage therapist works closely with doctors to treat patients who are affected by pain, illness, or injury. Their typical day-to-day roles and responsibilities include: Providing massages to patients for a variety of lengths.

How does a medical massage work?

Massage therapy relaxes muscle tissue, which reduces painful contractions and spasms. Massage can also reduce nerve compression. To understand this, consider that when muscles are contracted, they sometimes compress the nerves around them.

Is medical massage considered physical therapy?

While massage and soft tissue mobilization is a large part of physical therapy, don’t be surprised if your therapist doesn’t massage you. Your body may be showing them that other types of treatment will resolve the underlying limitation to restoring full range of motion and soft tissue mobility.

Can a massage therapist make a diagnosis?

Massage therapists are not licensed to diagnose, but when their hypotheses are based on sound CR, their contributions to the diagnostic process can be invaluable. This case represents an ideal interaction between clinicians.

Will my health insurance cover massage therapy?

People usually can’t receive coverage for any form of massage therapy without a doctor’s referral that clearly states that the therapy is medically necessary. Most health insurers pay for medically necessary treatments performed by a licensed massage therapist.

Are massages worth the money?

THE BOTTOM LINE Massage is good for you, although there’s little proof that the main benefits are the ones most commonly talked about. Even one session of massage therapy can influence symptoms of depression and anxiety, with regular sessions increasing the effect.

What’s the difference between SPA massage and medical massage?

While a spa massage may successfully relax you or temporarily relieve some stress, medical massage will produce tangible results. Medical massage therapy treatment is planned out with a specific goal in mind, and your massage will factor into a larger treatment plan that is based around your health needs and goals.

What’s the difference between a physical therapist and a massage therapist?

Although spa therapists have been trained in the general art of massage, they may not have the same level of expertise as a physical therapist. Our therapists have received additional training in the form of continuing education courses and certifications, which allow them to provide advanced care and treatment styles.

What does it mean to be a medical massage therapist?

Medical massage therapy is concerned with providing relief for medical conditions. It has sometimes been defined as massage therapy that is performed to treat a condition diagnosed by a medical professional ().

What are the different types of massage therapists?

The massage therapist will use a combination of: 1 kneading. 2 long, flowing strokes in the direction of the heart. 3 deep circular motions. 4 vibration and tapping. 5 passive joint movement techniques.