Editing Massage (section)

== Types and methods ==
=== Acupressure ===
{{Main|Acupressure}}
'''Acupressure''' [from Latin acus "needle" (see acuity) + pressure (n.)<ref>[http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?search=Acupressure Acupressure] Online Etymology Dictionary</ref>] is a technique similar in principle to [[acupuncture]]. It is based on the concept of life energy which flows through "meridians" in the body. In treatment, physical pressure is applied to [[acupuncture points]] with the aim of clearing blockages in those meridians. Pressure may be applied by fingers, palm, elbow, toes or with various devices.

Some medical studies have suggested that acupressure may be effective at helping manage nausea and vomiting, for helping lower back pain, tension headaches, stomach ache, among other things, although such studies have been found to have a high likelihood of [[bias]].<ref name="Lee">{{Cite journal |vauthors=Lee EJ, Frazier SK |date=October 2011 |title=The efficacy of acupressure for symptom management: a systematic review |journal=Journal of Pain and Symptom Management |volume=42 |issue=4 |pages=589–603 |doi=10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2011.01.007 |pmc=3154967 |pmid=21531533}}</ref>

=== Ashiatsu ===
[[File: USACE host Health Fair 2.jpg|thumb|upright=0.8|A licensed massage practitioner performs Ashiatsu massage.]]
In ashiatsu, the practitioner uses their feet to deliver treatment. The name comes from the Japanese, ''ashi'' for foot and ''atsu'' for pressure.<ref name="Capellini">{{Cite book |last=Capellini |first=Steve |title=The Complete Spa Book for Massage Therapists |date=2009 |publisher=Cengage Learning |isbn=9781133416517 |page=400}}</ref> This technique typically uses the heel, sesamoid, arch, and/or whole plantar surface of foot, and offers large compression, tension and shear forces with less pressure than an elbow and is ideal for large muscles, such as in thigh, or for long-duration upper trapezius compressions.<ref>Fix Pain: Bodywork Protocols for Myofascial Pain Syndromes Author: John Harris, Fred Kenyon {{ISBN|978-0-9665843-1-8}}  Publication Date: 2002</ref> Other manual therapy techniques using the feet to provide treatment include Keralite, Barefoot [[Lomilomi massage|Lomilomi]], and [[Chavutti Thirumal]].

=== Ayurvedic massage ===
Ayurvedic massage is known as ''Abhyangam'' in Sanskrit. According to the Ayurvedic Classics ''Abhyangam'' is an important dincharya (Daily Regimen) that is needed for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The massage technique used during Ayurvedic Massage aims to stimulate the lymphatic system. Practitioners claim that the benefits of regular Ayurvedic massage include pain relief, reduction of fatigue, improved immune system and improved longevity.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Garodia P, Ichikawa H, Malani N, Sethi G, Aggarwal BB |date=2007 |title=From ancient medicine to modern medicine: ayurvedic concepts of health and their role in inflammation and cancer |journal=Journal of the Society for Integrative Oncology |volume=5 |issue=1 |pages=25–37 |doi=<!-- none --> |url=https://www.jivaresearch.org/research/curcumin/From_ancient_medicine_to_modern_medicine-_Ayurvedic_concepts_of_health_and_their_role_in_inflamma.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091229214025/http://www.jivaresearch.org/research/curcumin/From_ancient_medicine_to_modern_medicine-_Ayurvedic_concepts_of_health_and_their_role_in_inflamma.pdf |archive-date=2009-12-29 |url-status=live |pmid=17309811}}</ref>

=== Burmese massage ===
[[File:Burmese Massage in Myanmar.jpg|thumb|Traditional Burmese Foot Massage at Sapel in [[Yangon]]]]

"Known in [[Myanmar]] as Yoe Yar Nhake Nal Chin, meaning 'traditional massage', Burmese massage has its ancient origins from Thai, Chinese and Indian medicine. It includes the use of local natural ingredients such as [[Thanaka]] which helps to promote smooth skin and prevents sunburn."<ref>{{Cite web |last=adminsakthong |title=About Massage |url=https://thai-massage-tenerife.com/en/about-massage |access-date=2024-04-24 |website=Thai Massage Tenerife {{!}} Sak Thong Thai Massage & Therapy Center |language=en-gb |archive-date=24 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240424191237/https://thai-massage-tenerife.com/en/about-massage |url-status=dead }}</ref>

Burmese massage is a full body massage technique that starts from head to toes, drawing on [[acupuncture]], [[reflexology]] and kneading. Signature massage strokes include [[acupressure]] using the elbows, quick gentle knocking of acupressure points, and slow kneading of tight muscles. The massage aims to improve blood circulation and quality of sleep, while at the same time help to promote better skin quality.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Speer |first=Kevin P. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=r_EI7b2bhIQC&dq=The+massage+aims+to+improve+blood+circulation+and+quality+of+sleep&pg=PA67 |title=Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation for Active Older Adults |date=2005 |publisher=Human Kinetics |isbn=978-0-7360-4031-0 |pages=67 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last1=Casanelia |first1=Lisa |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=xFZPQtontdUC&dq=The+massage+aims+to+improve+blood+circulation+and+quality+of+sleep&pg=PA176 |title=Foundations of Massage |last2=Stelfox |first2=David |date=2009-12-22 |publisher=Elsevier Health Sciences |isbn=978-0-7295-7869-1 |pages=176 |language=en}}</ref>

=== Biomechanical stimulation (BMS) massage ===
Biomechanical stimulation (BMS) is a term generally used for localised biomechanical oscillation methods, whereby local muscle groups are stimulated directly or via the associated tendons by means of special hand held mechanical vibration devices. Biomechanical oscillation therapy and training is offered in a variety of areas such as competitive sports,<ref>{{Cite web |date=June 2009 |title=Nie mehr Rückenschmerzen Sanfte Erfolgsstrategien gegen ein quälendes Volksleiden |trans-title=No more back pain |url=https://www.biomagazin.de/files/bio-magazin/content/archiv/2009/bio-magazin_2009-06.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180504160202/https://www.biomagazin.de/files/bio-magazin/content/archiv/2009/bio-magazin_2009-06.pdf |archive-date=2018-05-04 |url-status=live |publisher=BIO Ritter GmbH |location=Germany |page=30 |language=de}}</ref> fitness, rehabilitation,<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Siegmund |first1=Lee Anne |last2=Barkley |first2=Jacob E. |last3=Knapp |first3=Danielle |last4=Peer |first4=Kimberly S. |date=15 January 2014 |title=Acute Effects of Local Vibration With Biomechanical Muscle Stimulation on Low-Back Flexibility and Perceived Stiffness |journal=Athletic Training & Sports Health Care |volume=6 |issue=1 |pages=37–45 |doi=10.3928/19425864-20140115-01 |s2cid=72531737 |name-list-style=vanc}}</ref> medicine,<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Klyscz |first1=Thomas |last2=Ritter-Schempp |first2=Claudia |last3=Jünger |first3=Michael |last4=Rassner |first4=Gernot |date=1 May 1997 |title=Biomechanische Stimulationstherapie (BMS) zur physikalischen Behandlung des arthrogenen Stauungssyndroms |journal=Der Hautarzt |language=de |volume=48 |issue=5 |pages=318–322 |doi=10.1007/s001050050589 |pmid=9303905 |s2cid=349058 |name-list-style=vanc}}</ref> prevention, beauty and used to improve performance of the muscles and to improve coordination and balance. It is often used in [[myofascial trigger point]] therapy to invoke reciprocal inhibition within the musculoskeletal system. Beneficial effects from this type of stimulation have been found to exist.<ref name="study">{{Cite web |last1=Otto |first1=Olaf |last2=Dickreiter |first2=Bernhard |last3=Schuhmacher |first3=Jane |year=2011 |title=Matrix-Therapie – Ergebnisse einer Therapiestudie |trans-title=Matrix Therapy – Results of a Therapy Study |url=https://www.zellmatrix-akademie.de/matrix-therapie/Presse/Matrix-Studie.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425005156/http://zellmatrix-akademie.de/matrix-therapie/Presse/Matrix-Studie.pdf |archive-date=2012-04-25 |url-status=live |website=zellmatrix-akademie.de |language=de |name-list-style=vanc}}</ref>

=== Biodynamic massage ===
{{Main|Biodynamic massage}}
[[Biodynamic massage]] was created by [[Gerda Boyesen]] as part of Biodynamic Psychotherapy. It uses a combination of hands-on work and "energy work" and also uses a stethoscope to hear the peristalsis.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Stauffer |first=Kathrin A. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BkSjQQAACAAJ |title=Anatomy & Physiology for Psychotherapists: Connecting Body and Soul |date=2010 |publisher=W.W. Norton |isbn=978-0-393-70604-8 |edition=1st |location=New York |page=130}}</ref>

=== Craniosacral therapy ===
{{Main|Craniosacral therapy}}
Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a [[pseudoscience]]<ref name="ps">* {{Cite journal |last1=Norcross |first1=John C. |last2=Koocher |first2=Gerald P. |last3=Garofalo |first3=Ariele |year=2006 |title=Discredited psychological treatments and tests: A Delphi poll |journal=Professional Psychology: Research and Practice |volume=37 |issue=5 |pages=515–22 |doi=10.1037/0735-7028.37.5.515 |s2cid=35414392}}
* {{cite journal |vauthors=Mac Manus M |title=Unproven medical devices and cancer therapy: big claims but no evidence |journal=Biomed Imaging Interv J |volume=4 |issue=3 |pages=e25 |date=July 2008 |pmid=21610999 |pmc=3097732 |doi=10.2349/biij.4.3.e25 |type=Review}}
* {{cite journal |pmid=15537794 |year=2004 |last1=Bledsoe |first1=BE |title=The elephant in the room: Does OMT have proved benefit? |volume=104 |issue=10 |pages=405–6; author reply 406 |journal=The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association}}
* {{cite journal |doi=10.1186/1746-1340-14-10 |year=2006 |last1=Hartman |first1=Steve E |journal=Chiropractic & Osteopathy |volume=14 |pages=10 |pmid=16762070 |title=Cranial osteopathy: Its fate seems clear |pmc=1564028 |doi-access=free }}
* {{cite journal |pmid=15208545 |year=2004 |last1=Atwood |first1=KC |title=Naturopathy, pseudoscience, and medicine: Myths and fallacies vs truth |volume=6 |issue=1 |pages=33 |pmc=1140750 |journal=MedGenMed}}</ref> that aims to improve fluid movement and cranial bone motion by applying light touch to the skull, face, spine, and pelvis.<ref name="Upledger1995">{{Cite journal |vauthors=Upledger JE |date=April 1995 |title=Craniosacral therapy |journal=Physical Therapy |volume=75 |issue=4 |pages=328–30 |doi=10.1093/ptj/75.4.328 |pmid=7899490}}</ref>

=== Erotic massage ===
{{Main|Erotic massage}}
A type of massage that is done in an erotic way via the use of massage techniques by a person on another person's erogenous zones to achieve or enhance their sexual excitation or arousal and to achieve orgasm.

It was also [[Erotic massage#Use in medicine|once used for medical purposes]] as well as for the treatment of "[[female hysteria]]" and "womb disease".<ref>Pieter van Foreest (1631). ''Observationem et Curationem Medicinalium ac Chirurgicarum Opera Omnia'', medical compendium. [https://www.abebooks.com/servlet/BookDetailsPL?bi=30273942306 Facsimile reprint 2019]</ref><ref name="Maines">{{Cite book |last=Maines, Rachel P. |title=The Technology of Orgasm: "Hysteria", the Vibrator, and Women's Sexual Satisfaction |publisher=The Johns Hopkins University Press |year=1998 |isbn=0-8018-6646-4 |location=Baltimore |author-link=Rachel Maines}}</ref>

[[Nuru (massage)|Nuru massage]] is a Japanese form of erotic massage.

=== Hammam ("Turkish bath") massage ===
[[File:Augustins - Le Massage. Scène de hammam - Edouard Debat-Ponsan 1883.jpg|thumb|right|''Le massage: scène au Hammam'' by [[Edouard Debat-Ponsan]] (1883). An [[Orientalism|Orientalist]] painting depicting a massage at a [[hammam]].]]
In the traditional [[Hammam]], massage involves not just vigorous muscle kneading, but also [[cracking joints|joint cracking]], "not so much a tender working of the flesh as a pummeling, a cracking of joints, a twisting of limbs..."<ref>Richard Boggs, ''Hammaming in the Sham: A Journey Through the Turkish Baths of Damascus, Aleppo and Beyond'', 2012, {{isbn|1859643256}}, [https://books.google.com/books?id=uoMH_psyizoC&pg=PT161 p. 161]</ref> An 18th-century traveler reported:
{{Blockquote
|text=...one of the attendants begins to press and handle the tops of the shoulders, the muscles of the arm, and successively the whole body; first gently, then by degrees increasing the pressure, till he comes to handle pretty roughly, but without giving pain. This is repeated at short intervals till the skin is perfectly softened. The attendant then taking hold of the bather's fingers, with a dexterous jerk makes each joint crack successively; after which, laying him flat on his back, and bringing the arms across the breast, the shoulder joints are made to crack in like manner.
|author=[[Alexander Russell (naturalist)|Alexander Russell]]
|title=''[[The Natural History of Aleppo]]'' (1756)<ref>2nd edition, 1794, [https://books.google.com/books?id=EtTkC5ek_a8C&pg=PA134 p. 134-5]</ref>
}}

=== Lomilomi and indigenous massage of Oceania ===
{{Main|Lomilomi massage}}
''Lomilomi'' is the traditional massage of [[Hawaii]]. As an indigenous practice, it varies by island and by family. The word ''lomilomi'' also is used for massage in [[Samoa]] and East Futuna. In Samoa, it is also known as ''lolomi'' and ''milimili''. In East Futuna, it is also called ''milimili'', ''fakasolosolo'', ''amoamo'', ''lusilusi'', ''kinikini'', ''fai’ua''. The [[Māori people|Māori]] call it ''romiromi'' and ''mirimiri''. In [[Tonga]] massage is ''fotofota'', ''tolotolo'', and ''amoamo''. In [[Tahiti]] it is ''rumirumi''. On [[Nanumea]] in [[Tuvalu]], massage is known as ''popo'', pressure application is ''kukumi'', and heat application is ''tutu''. Massage has also been documented in [[Tikopia]] in the [[Solomon Islands]], in [[Rarotonga]], in [[Pukapuka]] and in [[Western Samoa]].<ref>Chai, R. Makana Risser, ed. ''Na Mo'olelo Lomilomi: Traditions of Hawaiian Massage and Healing'', Bishop Museum, 2005; Parsons, Claire D. F., ed. ''Healing Practices in the South Pacific'', 1985, The Institute for Polynesian Studies; Tregear, Edward. ''Maori-Polynesian Comparative Dictionary''.  Lyon and Blair, Wellington NZ, 1891</ref>

=== Lymphatic drainage ===
{{Main|Manual lymphatic drainage}}
Manual lymphatic drainage is a technique used to gently work and stimulate the lymphatic system, to assist in reduction of localized swelling. The [[lymphatic system]] is a network of slow moving vessels in the body that carries cellular waste toward the liver, to be filtered and removed. [[Lymph]] also carries [[lymphocytes]] and other [[immune system]] agents. Manual lymphatic drainage claims to improve waste removal and immune function.<ref>''Milady's Guide to Lymph Drainage Massage''; Ramona Moody French; Delmar/Cengage; 2004</ref><ref name="Stillerman">{{Cite book |last=Stillerman |first=Elaine |title=Modalities for Massage and Bodywork |publisher=[[Mosby (publisher)|Mosby]] |year=2009 |isbn=978-0323052559 |pages=129–143 |name-list-style=vanc}}</ref><ref name="Levine">{{Cite book |last=Levine |first=Andrew |url=https://archive.org/details/unset0000unse_k8j9 |title=The Bodywork and Massage Sourcebook |publisher=[[Lowell House]] |year=1998 |isbn=9780737300987 |pages=[https://archive.org/details/unset0000unse_k8j9/page/173 173–84] |url-access=registration |name-list-style=vanc}}</ref>

=== Medical massage ===
{{Main|Medical massage}}

Medical massage is a controversial term in the massage profession.<ref>{{Cite web |date=6 February 2013 |title=Medical Massage Controversy |url=http://www.massage-career-guides.com/medical-massage.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121101161401/http://www.massage-career-guides.com/medical-massage.html |archive-date=1 November 2012 |access-date=26 February 2013 |publisher=Massage-career-guides.com}}</ref> Many use it to describe a specific technique. Others use it to describe a general category of massage and many methods such as deep tissue massage, [[myofascial release]] and trigger-point therapy, as well as [[osteopathic]] techniques, [[Craniosacral therapy|cranial-sacral techniques]] and many more can be used to work with various medical conditions.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Introduction, With a Response to AMMA |url=https://www.massagetoday.com/articles/10631/Introduction-With-a-Response-to-AMMA |access-date=25 August 2020 |website=Massage Today}}</ref>

Massage used in the medical field includes [[Complete decongestive therapy|decongestive therapy]] used for [[lymphedema]]<ref name=nccam/> which can be used in conjunction with the treatment of [[breast cancer]]. Light massage is also used in pain management and palliative care.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=van Veen |first1=Suzan |last2=Drenth |first2=Hans |last3=Hobbelen |first3=Hans |last4=Finnema |first4=Evelyn |last5=Teunissen |first5=Saskia |last6=de Graaf |first6=Everlien |date=January 10, 2024 |title=Non-pharmacological interventions feasible in the nursing scope of practice for pain relief in palliative care patients: a systematic review |journal=Palliative Care and Social Practice |language=en |volume=18 |doi=10.1177/26323524231222496 |issn=2632-3524 |pmc=10785737 |pmid=38223744}}</ref> Carotid sinus massage is used to diagnose carotid sinus syncope and is sometimes useful for differentiating [[supraventricular tachycardia]] (SVT) from [[ventricular tachycardia]]. It, like the [[valsalva maneuver]], is a therapy for SVT.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Lim SH, Anantharaman V, Teo WS, Goh PP, Tan AT |date=January 1998 |title=Comparison of treatment of supraventricular tachycardia by Valsalva maneuver and carotid sinus massage |journal=Annals of Emergency Medicine |volume=31 |issue=1 |pages=30–5 |doi=10.1016/S0196-0644(98)70277-X |pmid=9437338}}</ref> However, it is less effective than management of SVT with medications.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Ballo P, Bernabò D, Faraguti SA |date=August 2004 |title=Heart rate is a predictor of success in the treatment of adults with symptomatic paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia |journal=European Heart Journal |volume=25 |issue=15 |pages=1310–7 |doi=10.1016/j.ehj.2004.05.011 |pmid=15288158 |doi-access=free}}</ref>

A 2004 systematic review found single applications of massage therapy "reduced state anxiety, blood pressure, and heart rate but not negative mood, immediate assessment of pain, and cortisol level," while "multiple applications reduced delayed assessment of pain," and found improvements in anxiety and depression similar to effects of psychotherapy.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Moyer CA, Rounds J, Hannum JW |date=January 2004 |title=A meta-analysis of massage therapy research |journal=Psychological Bulletin |volume=130 |issue=1 |pages=3–18 |citeseerx=10.1.1.510.3401 |doi=10.1037/0033-2909.130.1.3 |pmid=14717648}}</ref> A subsequent systematic review published in 2008 found that there is little evidence supporting the use of massage therapy for depression in high quality studies from [[randomized controlled trials]].<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Coelho HF, Boddy K, Ernst E |date=February 2008 |title=Massage therapy for the treatment of depression: a systematic review |journal=International Journal of Clinical Practice |volume=62 |issue=2 |pages=325–33 |doi=10.1111/j.1742-1241.2007.01553.x |pmid=18081800 |s2cid=11890912|doi-access=free }}</ref>

=== Myofascial release ===
[[File:MASAJE FACIAL.jpg|thumb]]
[[Myofascial release]] refers to the manual massage technique that claims to release adhered [[fascia]] and [[muscle]]s with the goal of eliminating [[pain]], increasing [[range of motion]] and [[equilibrioception]]. Myofascial release usually involves applying shear compression or tension in various directions, cross fiber friction or by skin rolling.<ref name="digiovanna">{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=tot78_5FxZwC&pg=PP1 |chapter=Chapter 12: Myofascial release |vauthors=Spinaris T, DiGiovanna EL |title=An Osteopathic Approach to Diagnosis and Treatment |publisher=Lippincott Williams & Wilkins |year=2005 |isbn=978-0-7817-4293-1 |edition=3rd | editor1=Eileen L. DiGiovanna | editor2=Stanley Schiowitz | editor3= Dennis J. Dowling |pages=80–82}}</ref>

=== Reflexology ===
[[Reflexology]], also known as "zone therapy", is an [[alternative medicine]] involving [[acupressure|application of pressure]] to the feet and hands with specific thumb, finger, and hand techniques without the use of oil or lotion. It is based on a [[pseudoscience|pseudoscientific]]<ref name="QuackWatch">{{Cite web |last=Barrett |first=Stephen |author-link=Stephen Barrett |date=25 September 2004 |title=Reflexology: A close look |url=http://www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/reflex.html |access-date=12 October 2007 |publisher=[[Quackwatch]] |name-list-style=vanc}}</ref> belief in a system of zones and reflex areas that purportedly reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands, with the premise that such work effects a physical change to the body.<ref name="Kunz&Kunz1993">{{Cite book |last1=Kunz |first1=Kevin |url=https://archive.org/details/completeguidetof00barb |title=The Complete Guide to Foot Reflexology |last2=Kunz |first2=Barbara |publisher=Reflexology Research Project |year=1993 |isbn=9780960607013 |url-access=registration |name-list-style=vanc}}</ref>

=== Shiatsu ===
[[Shiatsu]] (指圧) (''shi'' meaning finger and ''atsu'' meaning pressure) is a form of Japanese bodywork based on concepts in traditional Chinese medicine such as qi meridians. It consists of finger, palm pressure, stretches, and other massage techniques. There is no convincing data available to suggest that shiatsu is an effective treatment for any medical condition.<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Ernst |first1=Edzard |title=Oxford Handbook of Complementary Medicine |last2=Pittler |first2=Max H |last3=Wider |first3=Barbara |last4=Boddy |first4=Kate |year=2008 |isbn=9780199206773 |doi=10.1093/med/9780199206773.001.0001}}</ref>

=== Sports massage ===
[[File:Francesca Piccinini; Parma - Bergamo, 04122011.jpg|thumb|upright=0.8]]
Sports massage is the use of specific massage therapy techniques in an athletic context to improve recovery time, enhance performance and reduce the risk of injury.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Brummitt |first=Jason |date=February 2008 |title=The Role of Massage in Sports Performance and Rehabilitation: Current Evidence and Future Direction |journal=North American Journal of Sports Physical Therapy |volume=3 |issue=1 |pages=7–21 |issn=1558-6162 |pmc=2953308 |pmid=21509135}}</ref> This is accomplished using techniques that stimulate the flow of blood and lymph to and from muscles. Sports massage is often delivered before or after physical activity depending on the subject's needs, preferences and goals. Sports massages may help with flexibility, pain and recovery but the scientific evidence is mixed.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Master Your Recovery: The Benefits Of Sports Massage |url=https://www.anotherround.co.uk/post/recovery-benefits-sports-massage#:~:text=A%20meta-analysis%20study%20of%20previous%20studies%20found,or%20reduce%20delayed%20onset%20muscle%20soreness%20(DOMS). |access-date=2025-02-13 |website=anotherround.co.uk |language=en}}</ref>

=== Structural Integration ===
{{Main|Structural integration}}
[[Structural Integration]]'s aim is to unwind the strain patterns in the body's myofascial system, restoring it to its natural balance, alignment, length and ease. This is accomplished by hands-on manipulation, coupled with movement re-education. There are about 15 schools of Structural Integration as recognized by the International Association of Structural Integration,<ref name="Jacobson">{{Cite journal |vauthors=Jacobson E |year=2011 |title=Structural integration: origins and development |journal=J Altern Complement Med |type=Historical article |volume=17 |issue=9 |pages=775–80 |doi=10.1089/acm.2011.0001 |pmc=3162380 |pmid=21875349}}</ref> including the Dr. Ida Rolf Institute (with the brand [[Rolfing]]), Hellerwork, Guild for Structural Integration, Aston Patterning,<ref name="Claire">{{Cite book |last=Claire |first=Thomas |url=https://archive.org/details/bodywork00thom |title=Bodywork: What Type of Massage to Get and How to Make the Most of It |publisher=[[William Morrow and Co.]] |year=1995 |isbn=978-1591202325 |pages=[https://archive.org/details/bodywork00thom/page/40 40]–56 |url-access=registration |name-list-style=vanc}}</ref> Soma,<ref name="Knaster">{{Cite book |last=Knaster |first=Mirka |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zLdAGUCyHGwC |title=Discovering the Body's Wisdom: A Comprehensive Guide to More Than Fifty Mind-Body Practices |publisher=[[Bantam (publisher)|Bantam]] |year=1996 |isbn=9780307575500 |pages=195–208 |name-list-style=vanc}}</ref> and Kinesis Myofascial Integration.<ref name="Myers">{{Cite book |last=Myers |first=Thomas W. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=l2aGtM1zkYkC |title=Anatomy Trains: Myofascial Meridians for Manual and Movement Therapists |date=19 September 2001 |publisher=Elsevier Health Sciences |isbn=978-0-443-06351-0 |name-list-style=vanc}}</ref>

=== Swedish massage ===
[[File:Eesti Massaaži- ja Teraapiakool 002-klassikaline-massaaz.jpg|thumb|Estonian massage therapy school teaching the Swedish classical massage technique.|upright=1.6]]
The most widely recognized and commonly used category of massage is '''Swedish massage'''. The Swedish massage techniques vary from light to vigorous.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Braun |first=Mary Beth |title=Introduction to Massage Therapy |publisher=Lippincott Williams & Wilkins |edition=Third |page=16 |name-list-style=vanc}}</ref> Swedish massage uses five styles of strokes. The five basic strokes are [[effleurage]] (sliding or gliding), [[petrissage]] (kneading), [[tapotement]] (rhythmic tapping), friction (cross fiber or with the fibers) and vibration/shaking.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Swedish Massage |url=http://www.massageregister.com/western-massage/swedish-massage |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120904080101/http://www.massageregister.com/western-massage/swedish-massage |archive-date=4 September 2012 |access-date=18 October 2013 |publisher=Massagereister.com}}</ref>

The development of Swedish massage is often inaccurately credited to [[Per Henrik Ling]], though the [[Netherlands|Dutch]] practitioner Johann Georg Mezger applied the French terms to name the basic strokes.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Pages from history: Swedish massage |url=http://www.massagemag.com/Magazine/2002/issue100/history100.php |access-date=25 December 2006 |publisher=Massage Magazine |vauthors=Calver R |archive-date=24 February 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070224084509/http://www.massagemag.com/Magazine/2002/issue100/history100.php |url-status=dead }}</ref> The term "Swedish massage" is actually only recognized in English- and Dutch-speaking countries, and in Hungary and Israel. Elsewhere the style is referred to as "classic massage".

Clinical studies have found that Swedish massage can reduce chronic pain, fatigue,<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Sritoomma N, Moyle W, Cooke M, O'Dwyer S |date=February 2014 |title=The effectiveness of Swedish massage with aromatic ginger oil in treating chronic low back pain in older adults: a randomized controlled trial |journal=Complementary Therapies in Medicine |volume=22 |issue=1 |pages=26–33 |doi=10.1016/j.ctim.2013.11.002 |pmid=24559813}}</ref><ref name="Lovas2017">{{Cite journal |vauthors=Lovas J, Tran Y, Middleton J, Bartrop R, Moore N, Craig A |date=February 2017 |title=Managing pain and fatigue in people with spinal cord injury: a randomized controlled trial feasibility study examining the efficacy of massage therapy |journal=Spinal Cord |volume=55 |issue=2 |pages=162–166 |doi=10.1038/sc.2016.156 |pmid=27897186 |doi-access=free}}</ref> [[joint stiffness]] and improve function in patients with [[osteoarthritis]] of the knee.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Perlman AI, Ali A, Njike VY, Hom D, Davidi A, Gould-Fogerite S, Milak C, Katz DL |date=February 2012 |title=Massage Therapy for Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Randomized Dose-Finding Trial |journal=PLOS ONE |volume=7 |issue=2 |pages=e30248 |bibcode=2012PLoSO...730248P |doi=10.1371/journal.pone.0030248 |pmc=3275589 |pmid=22347369|doi-access=free }}</ref>

=== Thai massage ===
[[File:Thaimassage.jpg|thumb|right|Thai massage]]
{{Main|Thai massage}}
Known in Thailand as ''Nuat phaen boran'', meaning "ancient/traditional massage", traditional Thai massage is generally based on a combination of Indian and Chinese traditions of medicine.

Thai massage combines both physical and energetic aspects. It is a deep, full-body massage progressing from the feet up, and focusing on sen or energy lines throughout the body, with the aim of clearing blockages in these lines, and thus stimulating the flow of blood and lymph throughout the body. It draws on [[yoga]], [[acupressure]] and [[reflexology]].

Thai massage is a popular massage therapy that is used for the management of conditions such as musculoskeletal pain and fatigue. Thai massage involves a number of stretching movements that improve body flexibility, joint movement and also improve blood circulation throughout the body. In one study scientists found that Thai massage showed comparable efficacy as the painkiller ibuprofen in the reduction of joint pain caused by osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee.<ref>{{Cite journal |vauthors=Chiranthanut N, Hanprasertpong N, Teekachunhatean S |date=2014 |title=Thai massage, and Thai herbal compress versus oral ibuprofen in symptomatic treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized controlled trial |journal=BioMed Research International |volume=2014 |pages=490512 |doi=10.1155/2014/490512 |pmc=4165631 |pmid=25254207|doi-access=free}}</ref>

=== Traditional Chinese massage ===
{{main|Traditional Chinese medicine}}
Massage of [[Traditional Chinese Medicine|Chinese Medicine]] is known as ''An Mo'' (按摩{{lang-zh|p=Ànmó}}) (pressing and rubbing) or [[Qigong]] Massage and is the foundation of Japan's [[Anma]]. Categories include ''Pu Tong An Mo'' (普通按摩{{lang-zh|p=Pǔtōng ànmó}}) (general massage), ''Tui Na An Mo'' (推拿按摩{{lang-zh|p=Tuīná ànmó}}) (pushing and grasping massage), Dian Xue An Mo (cavity pressing massage), and ''Qi An Mo'' (氣按摩 {{lang-zh|p=Qì ànmó}}) (energy massage). [[Tui na]] (推拿{{lang-zh|p=Tuīná}}) focuses on pushing, stretching, and kneading muscles, and ''Zhi Ya''(指壓{{lang-zh|p=Zhǐ yā}}) focuses on pinching and pressing at [[acupressure]] points. Technique such as friction and vibration are used as well.<ref name="Jwing-Ming2005">Jwing-Ming, Yang. 2005. [https://books.google.com/books?id=FdtXPQAACAAJ Qigong massage: fundamental techniques for health and relaxation], 2nd ed. Ymaa Publication Center. {{ISBN|978-1594390487}}.</ref>

=== Trigger point therapy ===
Sometimes confused with [[pressure point]] massage,<ref name=nccam/> this involves deactivating [[trigger points]] that may cause local pain or refer pain and other sensations, such as headaches, in other parts of the body. Manual pressure, vibration, injection, or other treatment is applied to these points to relieve myofascial pain. Trigger points were first discovered and mapped by [[Janet G. Travell]] (President Kennedy's physician) and [[David G. Simons|David Simons]]. Trigger points have been photomicrographed and measured electrically<ref>David G Simons, Siegfried Mense and IJ Russell, Muscle Pain: Understanding Its Nature, Diagnosis, and Treatment Chapter: Myofascial Pain Caused by Trigger Points p.205–288 (1st hardcover edition), 2000, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins</ref> and in 2007 a paper was presented showing images of Trigger Points using MRI.<ref>Chen et al., p.2 2007, Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation</ref> These points relate to dysfunction in the myoneural junction, also called [[neuromuscular junction]] (NMJ), in muscle, and therefore this technique is different from reflexology acupressure and pressure point massage.

=== Tui na ===
{{Main|Tui na}}
Tui na is a Chinese manual therapy technique that includes many different types of strokes, aimed to improve the flow of [[Qi|chi]] through the [[Meridian (Chinese medicine)|meridians]].

=== Watsu ===
{{Main|Watsu}}
Watsu, developed by [[Harold Dull]] at [[Harbin Hot Springs|Harbin Hot Springs, California]], is a type of aquatic bodywork performed in near-body-temperature water, and characterized by continuous support by the practitioner and gentle movement, including rocking, stretching of limbs, and massage. The technique combines [[hydrotherapy]] floating and immersion with [[shiatsu]] and other massage techniques. Watsu is used as a form of [[aquatic therapy]] for deep relaxation and other therapeutic intent. Related forms include [[Waterdance]], Healing Dance, and Jahara technique.<ref name="Schoedinger2011">Schoedinger, P. 2011.  Watsu in aquatic rehabilitation. In: Becker, BE and Cole, AJ (eds). Comprehensive aquatic therapy, 3rd edition. Washington State University Press. {{ISBN|978-0615365671}}. http://www.comprehensiveaquatictherapy.com/CAT3/Home_Page.html {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140320171217/http://www.comprehensiveaquatictherapy.com/CAT3/Home_Page.html |date=20 March 2014 }}</ref><ref name="Dull2008">Dull, H. 2008. Watsu: freeing the body in water, 4th edition. Watsu Publishing. {{ISBN|978-1605853710}}.</ref>