Which Type of Massage Is Right for Me?
A Guide to Choosing the Best Treatment for Your Body
Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, high stress, or simply need a moment of relaxation, massage therapy can be a powerful tool to help your body heal and reset. In 2024, 76% of Canadians reported choosing massage primarily for health or stress-related reasons, and 62% used it for specific medical or wellness concerns. (American Massage Therapy Association) But with so many types of massage available, it can be hard to know which type of massage is right for you. At Armstrong Massage & Wellness in Brampton, our team of experienced Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) customizes each session to your unique needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular massage types we offer and who they benefit most.
1. Deep Tissue Massage
Ideal for: Chronic pain, muscle tension, injury recovery, athletes
Deep tissue massage focuses on releasing tight muscles and connective tissue below the surface. It uses slow, firm strokes to target knots and tension held deep in the body.
With approximately 1 in 5 Canadians living with chronic pain, surveys show 27% of massage-goers in 2024 sought relief from pain specifically . If you experience ongoing pain, stiffness, or athletic strain, this is likely the massage for you.
2. Swedish Massage
Ideal for: Stress relief, relaxation, first-time clients
Swedish massage is a gentle, flowing treatment designed to ease muscle tension and promote total relaxation. Using light to moderate pressure and long, gliding strokes, it’s perfect if you’re new to massage therapy or looking to unwind.
With over 56% of clients using massage for mental-health benefits in 2024 ranging from stress to relaxation , Swedish massage remains a top choice.
3. Prenatal Massage
Ideal for: Expecting mothers in their second or third trimester
Designed with the unique needs of pregnant bodies in mind, prenatal massage helps relieve lower back pain, reduce swelling, and improve sleep. Research in 2024 confirms prenatal massage reduces anxiety, alleviates sciatica and insomnia, and supports hormone balance (lower cortisol, higher oxytocin & serotonin) throughout pregnancy (Leaside Sports Medicine, Propel Sports Physical Therapy). It’s also been shown to improve labor comfort and emotional well-being.
4. Hot Stone Massage
Ideal for: Muscle stiffness, poor circulation, deep relaxation
Hot stones are used to warm up muscles, allowing deeper pressure with less discomfort. This massage melts away tension and helps improve blood flow.
It’s a luxurious option especially popular in cooler months and aligns well with the 56% of clients seeking mental-health benefits from massage .
5. Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Ideal for: Post-surgery swelling, immune support, detoxification
Using light, rhythmic strokes, this massage encourages natural lymph flow and reduces fluid retention. It can be especially beneficial for post-op clients or anyone seeking gentle detox and immune support.
Massage has been shown to increase lymph flow and support immune function .
6. Head & Facial Massage
Ideal for: Tension headaches, jaw pain (TMJ), stress relief
This focused massage addresses common areas of built-up tension like the scalp, temples, and jaw. It’s a fantastic add-on to a full-body treatment or a standalone service when you need quick relief.
Massage is clinically proven to reduce headache frequency and ease TMJ tension .
7. Dry Cupping Therapy
Ideal for: Muscle tension, stagnation, post-workout recovery
Dry cupping involves placing suction cups on the skin to lift tissue, improve circulation, and reduce muscle tightness. This technique is often used alongside massage to target specific areas of tension and promote faster healing. It’s part of the broader movement of 61% of consumers seeking massage for medical benefits, including soreness and spasms (Grand View Research).
8. Gua Sha
Ideal for: Muscle tightness, fascia release, facial rejuvenation
Gua Sha uses a smooth-edged tool to gently scrape the skin, helping release tension and improve blood flow.
It can be applied to the body or face and is especially effective for chronic tightness, inflammation, or TMJ relief — all key health concerns validated in 2024 massage research .
9. Celluma LED Light Therapy
Ideal for: Acne, signs of aging, pain relief, inflammation
Celluma LED light therapy uses red, blue, and near-infrared wavelengths to treat a variety of concerns. Red light stimulates collagen and reduces inflammation, blue light targets acne-causing bacteria, and infrared light supports pain relief and tissue repair.
Clinical trials in 2024 report up to 70% improvements in skin clarity and inflammation reduction with regular LED therapy sessions.
How to Choose the Right Massage
Not sure where to start? Ask yourself:
- Do I want to relax or treat a specific issue?
- Am I dealing with pain or recovering from injury?
- Is this my first massage or am I comfortable with firm pressure?
Remember: 95% of massage users believe it contributes to their overall health, and 86% see it as a legitimate healthcare option (American Massage Therapy Association).
Still unsure? Our team is happy to recommend the best treatment based on your needs.
At Armstrong Massage & Wellness, our RMTs take pride in offering personalized, therapeutic care. Whether you’re new to massage or looking to try something different, we’re here to help you feel your best.
Book Your Next Massage Session with Us Today or call us at 905 456 1117