Whether you’re an active individual, a weekend warrior, or a recreational athlete, maintaining your body’s health and performance is crucial. Two popular methods to achieve this are Massage Therapy and Assisted Stretching.
But how do they differ? And whats better, massage therapy or assisted stretching? Let’s dive in.
Understanding Massage Therapy
Massage Therapy is a passive form of muscle treatment, where the individual remains still while the therapist applies various techniques. These techniques involve rhythmically applied pressure to the skin and soft tissues of the body to reduce tension, promote relaxation, and improve overall circulation and flexibility.
While massage therapy can provide immediate relief and relaxation, it primarily works on the superficial layer of muscle and provides some mobilization of the fascial structures. There’s almost no danger that massage therapy would lead to injuries and overstretching so its low risk.
The Power of Assisted Stretching
Unlike massage therapy, Assisted Stretching is an interactive form of muscle treatment. Some techniques require the individual to engage their muscles. Assisted Stretching uses different types of stretching such as Static Stretching, Dynamic, Fascial, and PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation) to help individuals achieve a better quality of life.
Contrary to what many think, the primary mechanism for immediate gains from stretching are changes in the nervous system. It’s not changes in the actual structure of soft tissue like muscle, fascia, and tendons.
Unfortunately, many “stretch therapists” are just taught stretching methods and didn’t go through formal schooling or the rigorous hands-on training of licensed manual therapists. This increases the chance of overstretching if the patient isn’t careful to give enough feedback.
Assisted Stretching aims to enhance overall mobility and flexibility, helping to improve range of motion and reduce discomfort during movement.
Soft Tissue Therapy: Not the Same As Massage
We can argue massage therapy vs assisted stretching, but we think you’re asking the wrong question.
While Massage Therapy and Assisted Stretching have their unique benefits, it’s important to understand another key approach in this space: Soft Tissue Therapy. This is a more targeted and clinical form of massage.
Soft tissue therapy includes techniques like soft tissue mobilization, myofascial release, strain-counter strain, muscle energy techniques, joint mobilizations and manipulations, and mobilization with movement.
These techniques are used to influence;
- central nervous system,
- circulatory systems
- lymphatic systems
- muscle tissue
- fascial tissue
- connective tissue
Additionally, manual therapists are trained to use IASTM (tooling, Graston, etc…) and myofascial decompression cupping to achieve these results and improve pliability.
Soft Tissue Therapy focuses on working on more than just the suspected area of pain. Instead it works through entire integrated myofascial kinetic chains to facilitate better movement.
Who Wins: Massage Therapy vs Assisted Stretching?
While each of these therapies has its own strengths, the combination of Assisted Stretching AND Soft Tissue Therapy can provide comprehensive benefits.
By targeting the central nervous system, along with the circulatory systems, and the actual myofascial structures in the body, this combination can provide a more holistic approach to muscle treatment and overall wellness.
In conclusion, whether you’re an active individual, or an athlete, understanding these therapies is the first step. You now know how they can work together to optimize performance, reduce pain, and improve your overall quality of life.
As always, it’s recommended to consult with a professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Remember, the goal is not just to move, but to move better, move more, and do the things you love. Here’s to a healthier, more active you!
