Three of the most popular forms of massage explained

Why is focused shock wave therapy preferred?

Focused extracorporeal shock wave therapy is proven to be better for treating issues that impact tissues deeper within the body. Research has shown this therapy is ideal for treating tissues closer to the bone or in an area where a dense build-up may have occurred.

Patients who can't tolerate the discomfort of radial wave therapy in high doses could benefit from focused therapy, which provides a kinder experience. Focused shock wave therapy can be used with radial therapy when the medical professional feels the patient will benefit from a hybrid approach.

Radial therapy is the more painful of the two treatments due to its application. The radial treatment is typified by its vibrating nature. In addition, it is delivered over a larger area.

On the other hand, focused therapy can be used to treat more acute cases that cause the patient a lot of pain, not least because, as a form of treatment, it is typically less painful than radial therapy.

There can also be a difference in the number of sessions needed. In general, radial shock wave therapy often needs more sessions than focused shock wave therapy. Radial therapy often needs up to six sessions, while focused therapy requires less.

Massage has been proven to lower feelings of stress and anxiety, improve circulation and reduce cortisol to boost your immune system. Certain types of massage can also aid rehabilitation after a sports injury and help with pain in the muscles and joints. With more and more people recognising the benefits of massage therapy, we explore three of the most popular forms of massage you could enjoy.

Deep tissue massage

Deep tissue massages are fantastic if you suffer from particular 'trouble spots', where certain areas of your body are afflicted by pain or stiffness. Your masseur will use slow, deep strokes to put pressure on the deep tissue, muscles and tendons beneath your skin, to loosen up any tightness and relieve tension. While it may be less rhythmical than other forms of massage, deep tissue massage is a wonderful tool for relieving pain and aiding in the recovery of muscle injuries.

Sports massage

A sports massage is a particular type of massage usually used before, during and after carrying out sport or a workout. Sports massages are specially designed to help athletes reach peak performance, whether you're a pro or an amateur. This type of massage works to promote flexibility, drain swelling and reduce feelings of fatigue, helping to prevent injuries and giving sportspeople a greater ability to push through pain barriers and recover faster.

Swedish massage

A Swedish massage is the ultimate indulgence, so if you're in need of a good pampering session then this is the treatment for you. Your massage therapist will use a variety of methods, with the five main ones being stroking and gliding, rubbing, kneading, tapping and vibration. Different techniques are used on specific parts of the body, with a lighter touch on more delicate areas and a deeper massaging for areas with thicker muscle coverage. Swedish massages are designed to promote relaxation, reduce feelings of stress, improve circulation and ease muscle strain, leaving you feeling refreshed and reinvigorated.

The Wimbledon Clinic provides all three of these massage therapies, so whatever your needs, our expert masseurs are fully trained and equipped to deliver them. To find out more or to book your session, simply get in touch with us today.