Back pain, knots and tension: which massage to choose
Not all muscle pain is the same or treated the same way. We help you understand what is going on and which massage fits your case.
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Where tension comes from
Sustained postures, repetitive movements, sports effort and stress. Over time, knots and trigger points appear that limit movement and sometimes send pain elsewhere. More in back pain from work.
Which massage fits your case
For specific back, neck or shoulder pain, therapeutic massage goes after the cause with adapted pressure and at-home guidance.
For very localized knots or radiating pain — for example, headaches that start in the neck — trigger point therapy releases them with sustained pressure.
If you train or compete, sports massage prevents injuries and speeds recovery; see when to book it in massage before and after a race.
If you want to release tension and switch off, the custom massage combines relaxing and working strokes in one session. And if stress keeps you awake, foot reflexology is a very relaxing option.
When to see a doctor first
Strong pain after a fall, tingling or weakness, pain running down a leg, pain that wakes you at night or does not improve with rest. In those cases, get a diagnosis first.
Habits that multiply the effect
Changing position every half hour, lifting with bent knees, stretching at the end of the day, walking and sleeping enough. Massage relieves; habits make the relief last. If your legs also feel heavy, read heavy, swollen legs.
Further reading
Blog →
Back pain from work: when therapeutic massage helps
On your feet all day, lifting or at a screen: why your back hurts and what you can do.
Read →
Sports massage before and after a race: when to book and what to expect
A practical runner’s calendar: which massage to book the week before, on race day and after.
Read →
Heavy, swollen legs: why it happens and what really helps
Long hours standing, heat, hormones… What is behind heavy legs and what eases them.
Read →
Frequently asked questions
All frequently asked questions →What is the difference between therapeutic and sports massage?+
Therapeutic massage treats a specific problem (pain, a knot). Sports massage adapts to your training: prepare, recover and prevent injuries.
Does trigger point therapy hurt?+
You feel an intense but tolerable discomfort while the point is pressed. It always adapts to you.
How many sessions does a knot need?+
Many people feel relief in the first session. Long-standing problems usually need several and a change in the habits causing them.
Does massage replace a physical therapist?+
No. For an injury or strong, persistent pain, get a medical diagnosis first.
Write to us and we build your plan.
Before your first session we do an assessment: we listen to what you want and tell you honestly what we can achieve.