Massage Therapy is a broad term and encompasses many types of bodywork.

At a basic level, it is a manual therapy consisting of structured palpation and rhythmic movement of the soft tissue of the body. The goal is to reduce pain and inflammation, increase relaxation, increase circulation, increase range of motion of the joints, and change the tone of a group of muscles. These techniques may be applied with or without the aid of natural oils or creams. The purpose of the practice of massage is to enhance the general health and well-being of the recipient.

A massage therapy session may also include specialty techniques such as Swedish Massage, Neuromuscular Therapy, and Myofascial Release. Massage does not include the diagnosis of a specific pathology or spinal manipulation.

American Massage Therapy Association position statements on the effects of Massage Therapy for:

Health and Wellness
Fibromyalgia
Low Back Pain
Depression
Tension Headaches