While a spa massage may successfully relax you or temporarily relieve some stress, medical massage will produce tangible results. Medical massage therapy treatment is planned out with a specific goal in mind, and your massage will factor into a larger treatment plan that is based around your health needs and goals.

The term masseuse is a French word that refers to a female who practices massage. (Males in the industry were known as masseurs.) However, due to certain unsavory connotations (as well as the need for more gender neutral terminology), both male and female massage practitioners go by the term “massage therapist”.

Massage works by relaxing the muscle tissue. This in turn reduces inflammation, spasms, and painful muscle contractions. In some cases, medical massage can also reduce nerve compression. Once the muscles are relaxed, nerves are able to function properly.

masseur. noun. mas·​seur ma-ˈsər, mə- : a man who practices massage compare masseuse.