If you have never received a professional massage before, you might be wondering which kind is right for you. Deep tissue and Swedish massage are two of the most popular types, and they differ in technique, pressure, and focus. Here’s what you need to know about these two distinct massages.

Swedish Massage

The main focus of a Swedish massage is to increase relaxation. It’s perfect for individuals who have tension in their lower back, shoulders, or neck from sitting at a desk or exercising.

During the rubdown, a therapist uses long strokes and kneading to loosen up tight muscles all over the body. If a certain part of your body has extra tension, like your back, you can ask the therapist to focus more on that area. The therapist can apply light, medium, or firm pressure and put essential oils on the skin to reduce friction.

Deep Tissue Massage

A deep tissue massage targets the layers of the muscles and fascia and is suited for people with chronic pain in various areas of the body. Some of the most common conditions this massage treats include fibromyalgia, tennis elbow, osteoarthritis pain, and sciatica.

A therapist will use many of the same strokes used in Swedish massages—but apply a lot more pressure. They will break up the scar tissue and muscle knots, which might cause slight pain; if the pain becomes unbearable, however, your therapist can always adjust the technique. It’s normal to experience some soreness for a few days after the massage. 

If you want to increase relaxation and loosen up tight muscles, a deep tissue or Swedish massage might be your best bet. Massage therapist Zoe Zimmerman at Zoe's Zen Time in Shawano, WI, worked as a registered nurse in an emergency room for 16 years and has a true understanding of how the human body works. She will tailor your session to your specific needs, helping you feel amazing and get better sleep. To schedule an appointment, call (715) 304-6137, or visit her website for more information on her services.