Pregnancy is a time of significant physical and emotional changes. Massage therapy can be an effective tool to support these changes.
Two primary types of massage are often recommended for pregnant women: relaxation and remedial.
Each type offers unique benefits and caters to different needs during pregnancy.
Relaxation Massage During Pregnancy
Relaxation massage, as the name suggests, is primarily aimed at promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
Relaxation massage involves long, smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements on the superficial layers of muscle.
The primary goal is to provide a calming and soothing experience, which can be especially beneficial for expectant mothers experiencing anxiety or difficulty sleeping.
The gentle nature of relaxation massage makes it ideal for those in the early stages of pregnancy or for women new to massage.
Remedial Massage During Pregnancy
Remedial massage, on the other hand, is more targeted and therapeutic. It is designed to address specific physical issues or discomforts during pregnancy.
Remedial massage therapists use more precise strokes and pressure, often focusing on areas of tension or pain, such as the lower back, neck, or legs.
Remedial massage can be beneficial for managing common pregnancy-related issues like back pain, sciatica, and leg cramps.
It is often tailored to the individual’s needs and can vary in intensity and technique based on the trimester and the mother’s comfort level.
Choosing the Right Type of Massage
The choice between relaxation and remedial massage during pregnancy often depends on the specific needs and preferences of the expectant mother.
While relaxation massage is excellent for overall stress relief and emotional well-being, remedial massage can be more effective for addressing physical discomforts and muscular issues.
Pregnant women must consult their healthcare provider and a qualified massage therapist to determine the most suitable type of massage for their unique circumstances.
It’s also important for patients to be transparent regarding their health/medical history with their practitioner.
Can I Claim Relaxation or Remedial Massage With Private Health?
In Australia, private health insurance typically covers remedial but not relaxation massage.
Remedial massage is a therapeutic form aimed at treating specific health conditions and involves techniques like deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, myotherapy, and sports massage. This type of massage is recognized for its medical and therapeutic benefits and is often included in the extra cover of private health insurance policies.
When it comes to claiming remedial massage through private health insurance, there are a few essential points to consider:
- Health funds and policies differ in the type of natural therapies they cover.
- The remedial massage therapist providing the massage must be suitably qualified for the health fund to pay out any claims.
- There are typically annual limits on how much can be claimed for massage therapies.
- Remedial massages can usually be claimed only once per day under these policies and are subject to annual and lifetime limits.
It’s essential to check with your specific health fund for the details of your coverage, including any limits or restrictions that may apply. Also, ensure that your health fund registers and recognises the massage provider.
For more detailed information, refer to the sources from health.gov.au and Compare the Market.
The Benefits of Pregnancy Massage at Gold Coast Pregnancy Massage
Whether seeking relief from pregnancy-related discomfort or simply looking to relax and unwind, Gold Coast Pregnancy Massage, located in Chirn Park Health Group Southport, offers specialized services to meet your needs.
With expert massage therapists trained in both relaxation and remedial massage techniques for pregnancy, you can receive personalized care that addresses your specific concerns. If the patient prefers, we can combine remedial and relaxation massage techniques for the ultimate rejuvenating experience.
Contact Gold Coast Pregnancy Massage to explore the benefits of these therapeutic massages and enhance your pregnancy experience with the care and support you deserve.
