Massage Therapy vs Spa Massage: Understanding The Key Differences

According to the American Massage Therapy Association, more than 40% of people have gotten a massage for health reasons. A back rub is soothing, but it’s typically not the right technique for addressing real problems.

Many people get massages to relieve pain and swelling, but it also benefits mental health. Two of the most common solutions include massage therapy and spa services.

To discover the differences between massage therapy and massages, check out the info below!

Differing Purposes

One of the most important differences between massage therapy and spa massages is their purpose. 

Massage therapy is meant to treat or heal medical conditions and ailments. Although it doesn’t offer an instant solution, repeated massages will come with excellent benefits.

Our clients choose massage therapy to manage the following symptoms:

• Pain & Discomfort
• Swelling
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Depression & Anxiety

Spa massages still reduce pain and have calming effects, but they aren’t as powerful. The goal of these massages is to offer a temporary fix that will increase relaxation.

Frequency of Massages

The different types of massages can change the frequency of your appointments. Although spa massages can become part of your routine, you won’t need them as often as massage therapy.

Our massage therapy teams in Nashville and Franklin offer more consistent bookings. Each session will target key areas to ensure proper rest time is given. At MPower MD, we will develop a routine that’s ideal for your conditions.

Since excessive pressure can cause wounds and be harmful, you don’t want to overdo it. Our massage therapists are trained to use gentle techniques, so you walk away feeling better, not worse.

Typically, spa massages are booked for individual appointments without follow-up. They won’t be addressing medical conditions, so the therapists won’t monitor your progress as closely.

Varying Prerequisites

Before booking a massage therapy appointment, you must get a prescription. Since medical conditions are meant to be treated during sessions, they must seek advisement from your doctor.

Spa massages are a great solution while you await your prescription for massage therapy. Although they won’t treat your conditions as effectively, they act as a good alternative.

The primary separation between spa and therapeutic massages is that a massage therapist must be registered.

Techniques of Each

Spa massages and massage therapy use differing techniques because they have unique goals.

With massage therapy, you can expect more emphasis on deep tissue and trigger points. The enhanced pressure helps reach problems and organically soothes medical conditions. This treatment is recommended for targeting specific areas of concern.

Here are a few other techniques used by massage therapists: 

• Kneading
• Vibration or shaking
• Rubbing
• Tapping

If you head to a spa for a massage, they may use various techniques but mainly focus on gentle strokes. Spa massages incorporate light and deep tissue treatments, but newer trends are appearing. Aromatherapy and CBD spa massages are gaining popularity, but they are best for whole-body experiences.

Massage Outcomes

Massages can be intimidating, especially if you’re already experiencing discomfort. With MPower experts, you’ll know what to expect along your treatment journey to ensure success.

Walking out of your massages will feel different depending on where you receive services. Massage therapists aim to treat conditions with measurable results. This is much different than a spa massage, where the outcome is for you to leave more relaxed.

Client satisfaction is a key component of spas, so they try to create a positive and uplifting environment. This helps people return for massages to find moments of physical and mental relief.

While client satisfaction is still as important to our team, we intend to help you with your recovery. MPower massage therapists will manage your progress so that you can focus on healing.

Clinical Involvement

When it comes to medical aspects, massage therapy is far more extensive than spa massages. A doctor is involved with medical massages since it’s a direct form of treatment.

Spa massage professionals often go to school to get certified. While this knowledge and experience can offer advantages, it can’t fully treat conditions.

Talking to your healthcare provider about concerns and discomfort can help you get a prescription. Massage therapists will work with your doctor to ensure you’re moving in the right direction.

If you want to learn more about our process and results, take a moment to view our testimonials. This is a great way to prepare yourself if you’re ready to take the next steps to recovery.

Office Atmosphere

Did you know that a third of the US population has aromatic sensitivities?

If you get headaches or congestion problems around strong scents, you may be happier at a massage therapy office. Spas often use incense and essential oils for soothing benefits, but they can come on too strong for some.

Spas try to create a pleasant atmosphere, no matter where you are in the building. At massage therapy appointments, the rooms won’t be as decorated or aromatic. Cleanliness and comfort are a priority for massage therapists, however, so you can find relief.

While massage therapy creates a medical atmosphere, you can still take comfort in talking to our friendly team.

Use of Technology

At MPower, we try to provide the best care for our clients, which involves the use of technology. Our ancillary services offer a full therapy experience, whereas spa massages won’t.

With massage therapy, tech plays a key role in tracking development and nutrition. Looking at various health factors can help us identify problem areas that need to be addressed.

Spas won’t have your medical history and they don’t take data. Without this use of tech, they can’t fully address conditions.

Is Massage Therapy Right for You?

After considering your medical conditions and goals, it will help you decide which type of massage treatment is best.

Understanding therapeutic massage advantages can put you on the path to recovery and health. MPower’s facilities and VIP treatment can help you improve performance while addressing all areas of health. While spa massages come with their benefits, we can address underlying problems.

If you’re ready to find relief and receive the benefits of massage therapy, book an appointment online today!