Spas have become popular in the recent past especially with the renowned benefits of spa treatments to the body. These treatments increase the flow of oxygen and nutrients to all body cells as well as throughout the system, resulting in general wellbeing. When most people mention spa treatments, what comes to mind is massages. However, there are various types of treatments. In this article, we will look at the difference between Acupressure and massage. 

What is Acupressure?

Used hand in hand with acupuncture, this is an alternative medicine technique that uses the concept of the flow of life energy through meridians. Treatment involves the application of pressure to the trigger points or acupuncture points. This aims at clearing blockages. The application of pressure is done through devices, the elbow or hands. 

Although there is no evidence of the effectiveness of acupressure, some studies reveal that it can help in tension back pain, low back pain and stomach pains, among others. 

Acupressure can be done by applying pressure, rolling or rubbing on the reflex zones. Among devices that can be used include the acuball, the energy roller, the foot roller, the power mat and the Teishein. 

What is Massage?

This is the manipulation of the soft tissues in the body to treat body pain or stress. It commonly uses fingers, hands, knees, elbows, a device or forearms. Persons who carry out are known as a masseuse for females or masseur for males. In some countries, they are referred to as massage therapists since they must get the relevant license. 

Massages are performed with clients sitting on massage chairs or lying on massage tables or mats. Among the modalities of massages include deep tissue, trigger points, sports, medical, Swedish, structural integration, manual lymphatic drainage and Thai massages. 

There are many different types of massages practiced worldwide. These include Acupressure, Ashiatsu, Burmese massage, Biodynamic massage, Erotic massage, Lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, Shiatsu, Structural integration and erotic massage, just to name a few. 

Similarities

• Both aim to treat or improve body relaxation

Differences

Definition

Acupressure refers to an alternative medicine technique that uses the concept of the flow of life energy through meridians. On the other hand, massage refers to the manipulation of the soft tissues in the body to treat body pain or stress. 

Treatment

While Acupressure treatment involves the application of pressure to the trigger points or acupuncture points, massage treatment involves the manipulation of the soft tissues with clients sitting on massage chairs or lying on massage tables or mats.

Acupressure vs. Massage: Comparison Table

Summary of Acupressure and Massage

Acupressure is an alternative medicine technique that uses the concept of the flow of life energy through meridians. It can be done by applying pressure, rolling or rubbing on the reflex zones. On the other hand, massage refers to the manipulation of the soft tissues in the body to treat body pain or stress. It is performed with clients sitting on massage chairs or lying on massage tables or mats. 

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