Remedial massage therapy is a hands on modality that aids in reducing or eliminating chronic pain and restoring function. Remedial massage incorporates different techniques  such as deep tissue massage, trigger point releases, myofascial releases, cupping, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilisation, thermotherapy and cryotherapy to help relieve these issues, therefore treatment may be more specific, focused and directed to the source of pain.

Remedial massage therapists have a minimum diploma qualification which covers the studies of human anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology. This allows remedial massage therapists to understand your pain, determine the source of pain and treat and manage accordingly. 

At Pro-Form Physiotherapy, our therapists work alongside our physiotherapists, chiropractors and exercise physiologists to ensure that your recovery process is as smooth as possible.

The benefits of remedial massage vary from reducing stress related symptoms, to improving blood flow to aid with recovery from injury, to reducing swelling or inflammation, to relaxation and restoring tight muscles and limited joint range. Listed below are conditions that may improve when treated with remedial massage alongside other modalities.

- Neck Pain

- Back Pain

- Shoulder Pain

- Fibromyalgia 

- Tension headaches 

- Muscle spasms or cramps

- Sciatica

As previously explained, remedial massage is a hands on modality that aids in reducing or eliminating chronic pain and restoring function. They incorporate techniques found in deep tissue massage, however treatment is more specific and directed towards the source of pain and aid with recovery from training or injury. They utilise other hands on techniques like trigger point therapy, myofascial release, cupping, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilisation, thermotherapy and cryotherapy to assist with providing relief for chronic pain sufferers.

Deep tissue massage is a more generalised treatment and focuses on full body massage rather than determining a source of pain. Generally, those who provide deep tissue massage only have a qualification of a Certificate IV in Massage. These types of practices are usually found in day spas or massage centres. If you are unable to tolerate pain or are looking for more of a relaxing massage, then a deep tissue massage may be more suited for you. 

During your pregnancy, a remedial massage may be suggested to you by your GP, physiotherapist, chiropractor or your midwife to assist with reducing swelling or loosening tightness in and around your body. Remedial massage will help relieve pain and swelling experienced during pregnancy, more commonly seen in the neck, shoulders, lower back and hips. However, pending on the history of your pregnancy and in which trimester you are in, your therapist may ask a few more questions to gauge the safety of the remedial massage and will request you to seek further medical assistance if contraindications are evident.

To ensure that you receive the adequate treatment during your pregnancy, seek remedial massage therapists with special training in pre-natal massage or who have completed diplomas in remedial massage. 

A remedial massage is for everyone and anyone. From desk jockeys to professional athletes, to the cashier at your local supermarket and the mum and dad running around with the kids. The benefits of having regular remedial massages far outweigh the risks of experiencing chronic pain and poor recovery. If you are experiencing stress, body aches, muscle tightness, joint stiffness, poor recovery post training or injury - then you should book yourself in for a remedial massage ASAP or see one of our physios or chiros. 

How often should I get a remedial massage?

Your remedial massage therapist will provide you recommendations of the frequency of treatment depending on your presenting condition. It’s important that you are consistent with treatment and follow advice to ensure the smooth process of your recovery. 

What should I expect during a remedial massage session

Communication is key.

A short, yet thorough conversation in regards to your condition and what you are experiencing is pivotal in providing you the correct care. A cluster of tests will be performed to determine the root cause of your issues and where safe, hands on therapy to get into those muscles, joints and soft tissue structures that may be causing your pain or discomfort. All while you continue to provide your remedial massage therapist feedback on what feels good and what doesn’t. You will then be recommended home exercises to aid with today’s treatment or referred to another one of our practitioners at Pro-form Physiotherapy to ensure a smooth transition through your recovery process.