The Difference Between Clinical and Spa Massage

Clinical massage, also known as medical massage, is mainly focused on achieving a certain prescribed outcome. A clinical massage benefits its recipient by helping in the treatment of a medical condition, such as back pain and spasms, abnormalities in the spinal column, migraine, respiratory and cardiovascular conditions and more. These massages are often shorter in nature than spa massages and are performed for their overall health benefits rather than for pure relaxation. Clinical massage therapists must undergo intensive training regarding the human anatomy and medical treatment protocols. During a massage, a clinical therapist will communicate a great deal with the patient to ensure the treatment is actually relieving the pain and pressure it is intended to help.Spa massage differs from clinical massage in many ways, though many of the techniques are the same and help relieve stress. The difference comes in the application. Spa massage is intended to help the recipient achieve high levels of relaxation, rather than increased physical wellness. This type of massage also includes specialized treatments, such as body wraps, scrubs and masks. Massage therapists in spa settings are generally silent, and only talk to clients to give basic, minimal instruction. An individual wanting to become a massage therapist in a spa setting must undergo much of the same training as clinical therapists, but with less emphasis on human anatomy and medical terminology.