The touch of massage may be applied through clothing, through a sheet or other covering, or directly to the skin. The client usually lies on a padded table, but massage may be adapted for almost any position including side-lying, sitting in a chair, sitting up in bed, or being held. Massage covers a broad range of touch, from gentle to deep, and therefore it can be adapted to almost any need. Even infants born prematurely have received massage safely. Throughout childhood, adulthood and maturity, massage can be modified so that healthy touch remains a part of our experience.
Many people use massage therapy to increase relaxation and reduce stress.
Massage therapy also commonly addresses musculoskeletal pain and injury due to overuse or accident. Massage is not recommended where there are skin rashes or sores, fragile skin, or a condition of easy bruising. In addition, some individuals whose heart, liver or kidney function is compromised should receive either no massage or modified massage. Professional massage therapists are individuals who have completed one or more training programs specifically in massage. Some states license massage therapists, but others, including Massachusetts, do not.