Massage therapy is the manual manipulation of soft tissue. It can improve circulation by bringing oxygen and other nutrients to body tissues, relieves muscle tension and pain, increases flexibility and mobility, and helps clear lactic acid and other waste, which reduces pain and stiffness in muscles and joints.

People get massage therapy for relaxation or for a variety of health conditions:

o Back pain
o Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendinitis
o Stress relief and stress-related conditions
o Headaches and migraines
o Muscle and related conditions such as spasms, strains and sprains
o Repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
o Circulatory and respiratory problems
o Post-injury and post surgical rehabilitation

Swedish Massage is great for starting a massage because it allows the therapist to find the problem areas and see where she needs to focus. Then other techniques may be used, such as deep tissue treatments, trigger point therapy and hydrotherapy.