Massage therapy: what it is, what it does and what to expect

Massage therapy has been used for centuries to support health, relieve pain and promote recovery — and modern evidence increasingly supports what practitioners and their clients have long known.

Far more than a relaxation treatment, massage therapy is a clinically valuable tool for addressing musculoskeletal pain, supporting injury rehabilitation, reducing the physical effects of stress and enhancing athletic performance.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to massage therapy: what it is, who it can help and what your first appointment will involve.

What is massage therapy?

Massage therapy involves the systematic manipulation of the soft tissues of the body — muscles, fascia, connective tissue, tendons and ligaments — using hands-on techniques.

Qualified massage therapists apply varying pressure, rhythm and technique to achieve specific therapeutic outcomes.

In New Zealand, qualified massage therapists hold recognised qualifications and may be members of professional bodies such as Massage New Zealand. At Habit Health, our massage therapists work as part of a multidisciplinary team, meaning your care can be coordinated with physiotherapy, occupational therapy or other services as needed.