Massage is the maneuvering of assorted layers of muscle and connective tissue to promote function and advance relaxation. Massage involves manipulating the body with pressure. Target tissues could include muscles, tendons, ligaments, skin, joints, or other connective tissue, along with lymphatic vessels. Massage can be implemented with the use of hands, fingers, elbows, knees, forearm, and feet. There are a number of different acknowledged massage modalities. Massage involves the client being treated while resting on a massage table, sitting in a massage chair, or lying on a mat. The massage subject may be fully or partly unclothed. Parts of the body may be draped with towels or sheets.

Specialized massage tables are used to position clients during massages. A typical commercial massage table has a cushioned surface and a head support that allows the client to breathe easily while lying face down. An orthopedic pillow or bolster pad can be used to correct body placement. Ergonomic chairs serve a similar function as a massage table. Clients do not need to disrobe to receive a chair massage. Due to these two factors, chair massage is often performed in settings such as corporate offices, events, and other public locations.

During Swedish massage, massage therapists may use oils or lotion to facilitate smooth, gliding strokes called effleurage. Other Swedish massage moves include kneading and stretching. Swedish massage uses firm but gentle pressure to induce relaxation, ease muscle tension and promote other health benefits. Generally during Swedish massage you're nude underneath a towel or sheet. The therapist uncovers only the part of the body that is being worked on, a technique called "draping". You can keep your underwear on during Swedish massage. Communicate your preference for pressure to your therapist during the massage. It can range from light to firm. Swedish massage may include some deeper work on areas of specific muscle tension, but If you want more intensive work and firmer pressure, get a deep tissue massage.

Deep tissue massage is a type of therapeutic massage that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. It is particularly helpful for chronically tense and contracted areas which include stiff necks, sore shoulders and lower back pain. It uses some of the same techniques that are used in Swedish massage therapy, but the motion is slower, more focused, the pressure is deeper and concentrated on areas of tension and pain. When there is chronic muscle tension or there has been an injury, there are usually bands of painful or rigid tissue called adhesions in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Adhesions can limit movement, obstruct circulation, cause pain and inflammation. Deep tissue massage works by breaking down these adhesions to restore normal function and relieve pain. To do this, the massage therapist often uses direct deep pressure or friction applied across the grain of the muscles. At certain points during the massage, most people find there is usually some discomfort and pain. It is important to tell the massage therapist when things hurt and if any soreness or pain you experience is outside your comfort level. There is usually some stiffness or pain after a deep tissue massage, applying ice to the area after the massage may help.