the benefits of remedial massage according to an endota remedial massage therapist
Just as there are numerous benefits to massage, there are also numerous types of massage. Enter remedial massage, a light touch through to firm, deep-tissue style massage that is often recommended to those with injuries to encourage recovery.
We spoke with endota Spa Newcastle’s remedial massage therapist and spa manager, Marian Puglia, to learn more about this massage technique, including what you can expect after a remedial massage.
what is a remedial massage?
Remedial massage is a holistic treatment that Marian describes as ‘A targeted massage modality aimed at relieving pain in the muscles or joints. It’s helpful in treating chronic pain, musculoskeletal conditions and overuse injuries like carpal tunnel.’
Compared to other massage styles a remedial massage includes ‘A more thorough assessment of the involved structures, and then more specific work aimed at relieving pain and tension,’ explains Marian. ‘Your remedial therapist may evaluate your range of motion and then spend your appointment time focused on the part of your body that is troubling you. A remedial massage can be a full body massage, but often it won't be. The time will be spent working on the muscles that are causing any pain.’
what does a remedial massage feel like?
While the first thought may be that remedial massage is going to be a less than pleasant experience, Marian assures that this isn’t the case. ‘Many people associate remedial massage with a very firm massage, but that's not always the case. If a muscle or part of the body is very sensitive, the therapist will work at a level which is tolerable to the client.’
‘Just like any massage, you should let your therapist know what pressure you prefer. They may work with you to warm up an area before they work more deeply,’ says Marian.
‘Many people associate remedial massage with a very firm massage, but that's not always the case. If a muscle or part of the body is very sensitive, the therapist will work at a level which is tolerable to the client.’
Marian, endota spa remedial massage therapist
what can you expect after a remedial massage?
‘You may be a bit sore, but you should feel looser and have a greater range of motion. Any soreness and discomfort should dissipate after a couple of days,’ explains Marian. And to nurture your body post massage ‘Ensure that you drink plenty of water afterwards and don't do anything too strenuous for the rest of the day.’
While a singular remedial massage can help greatly with easing pain and discomfort, ongoing care is a good habit that can benefit in the long run. ‘It's important to keep up with any stretches your therapist recommends and to make remedial massage a regular part of your self-care practice. Keep up with your treatment plan, and don't wait until you are in a lot of pain to book in that next massage.’
So, when should you book that next massage? A tell-tale sign is any muscular pain. ‘This can range from lower back pain, sore feet and heels, wrist pain, tight shoulders and headaches,’ says Marian, who stresses that ‘If you've injured yourself, or suspect you've broken a bone or something more serious, it's best to see your GP first.’
how often should you have a remedial massage?
According to Marian, it depends on you and your body’s needs. For example, ‘If you work long hours at a computer and now you can't turn your head to one side without experiencing pain, you may need one session a week until this starts to improve. After a few sessions I may want to see you once a month for maintenance. I'd also send you home with some stretches to do at your desk and my favourite Cork Peanut Roller to get into those upper back muscles.’
That said, you don't need to actively be in pain to book a remedial massage. Marian explains that ‘If you're training for a big run, or are an avid recreational football player, I would also recommend at least one monthly remedial massage to keep the muscles in your legs free of any knots and tension.’
does my remedial massage include a health fund rebate?
Most of our spas have HICAPS and offer private health cover rebates on remedial massage. When you make your booking just let the spa know that you would like to make a claim and which health fund you are with, and they will advise if they have any remedial therapists with provider numbers and which funds you can claim with.
how can you become a remedial massage therapist and what is it like?
‘In Australia you need a Diploma of Remedial Massage to practice, which you can study at endota Wellness College. Studying remedial massage is a great complement to a beauty therapy degree as you'll learn more about all the systems of the body and learn new massage techniques to incorporate into your work,’ says Marian.
As for practicing remedial massage in spa ‘I really enjoy working with clients to help them relieve their pain and discomfort. It's also fun to hear about the athletic pursuits of my regulars,’ says Marian.
Does remedial massage sound like the type of massage your body needs? Read more and book your remedial massage at endota here.
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