Best Type of Massage For Pain Relief

Heading to the Delta Center to watch the Jazz play their rivals can be a great outing with friends, but irritating aches and pains that won’t seem to go away can quickly ruin it. Whether you have nagging discomfort in your neck and shoulders, or lower back pain triggered by sudden movements, each can cause a variety of lasting issues that lower your quality of life.

Types of Massage

Fortunately, though, most pain can be quickly alleviated by massage of different kinds. Here are the best types of massage for pain relief so you can get rid of the ache and get on with your life.

Deep Tissue Massage

A common form of massage in the United States, this type entails manipulating the layers of muscle and tissue beneath the skin in order to promote recovery and pain relief. Many sources of pain in the body come from muscle tissue that has been regrown poorly after injury, overuse, or misuse – deep tissue massage is aimed at aligning the tissues in the correct manner, and promoting the restoration of proper blood flow in the area. Those who have suffered from muscle tears in the past will also benefit greatly from this type of therapy.

Reflexology

While many people believe that reflexology strictly involves the patient receiving a foot massage, this type is truly much more complex than that. Reflexology entails the practitioner manipulating specific points on the foot that correspond to internal organs, thus promoting proper function within the patient’s body. This type of massage is extremely relaxing, and can help relieve internal pain that a patient might be experiencing.

It is also extremely beneficial for those that work or move on their feet often, as it can relieve aches and pains that are a direct result or walking or running for hours on end.

Shiatsu Massage

This is a great alternative for those who are unable to withstand the intensity of deep tissue massage, yet are still looking for an efficient method that will quickly reduce their aches and pains.

Shiatsu massage entails the practitioner manipulating specific points on the body, applying gentle pressure for a specific period of time, and moving forward with the goal of increasing blood flow and overall balance in the body of the patient. The massage is closely tied with the practice of acupuncture, as the points pressed by the practitioner are exactly where the needles would be placed if acupuncture were to be used.

Many recipients of this type of massage feel extremely relaxed afterwards, and report both the reduction of pain and the improvement of mood, most likely from the practitioner’s application of pressure on spots that are directly linked to internal balance. And because of the gentle nature of this therapy, patients rarely ever feel sore or tight during the days following.

Pick the Best Massage for You

Different types of massage will aid patients in a variety of ways, and it is important to discover what the best treatment option is for you. But no matter what you choose, after receiving a massage you will feel fewer pains and enjoy a better quality of life overall.

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Matrix Spa & Massage Customer Reviews

Nice spa experience. Great massage.

LaDonna Speiser

15:53 28 Nov 23

Me encanta este lugar , sus instalaciones , sus terapeutas , su ubicación

Diana Rincon

06:55 17 Nov 23

Definitely recommend. I've had the Swedish message, the hot stone, and the body scrub. Very relaxing on all 3

Racheal neely

03:35 16 Nov 23

We had such an amazing experience. We were greeted with kindness and asked if we wanted anything to drink as we walked in. Our massage was relaxing, and hit all my problem area’s. The sauna, steam room, and ice bath were also an unforgettable experience. It’s beautifully decorated and has such a calm relaxing vibe. I’ll definitely be going back.

Ori W

14:09 19 Oct 23

My husband and I came to Matrix for the Emerald package and had a wonderful experience! Donna May gave me a life-changing massage and we certainly hope to return. The sauna/bath area very much reminded me of a Korean jjimjilbang and had plenty of refreshments, towels, and robes, as well as chlorophyll water. All of the staff was very friendly and skilled—Thank you so much for taking care of us today!!

Renee Spady

01:20 02 Oct 23

I received a 90 minute prenatal massage by Jacqui at the recommendation of my sister and it was fantastic. I would return if I lived locally, but I was only in town for a visit. I will say this is not a day-spa experience (no robes, relaxation room, etc.), but the atmosphere was still very relaxing. Jacqui had a pad on the table for me to lay facedown and support my body weight off of my belly, that on its own was great! At one point I felt the need to adjust the way I was laying and she gave me a moment to be sure I was comfortable. It felt like she was very present during my massage, focusing on areas that were requiring extra attention and finding tightness I hadn't even noticed because I was so uncomfortable in other areas. I slept so well the nights following that massage and she definitely helped with my pregnancy pains.

Sarah Pipitone

14:11 28 Sep 23

Friendly staff and clean facilities, my massage was great, my body felt relax and rejuvenated. Will definitely be back.

Kevin Russel

20:17 18 Sep 23

Donna Mae was brilliant! Must see her, best massage I’ve ever had!

Julie Kromar

01:04 10 Sep 23

Edit: 09/02 better experience this time due to Rachel who was my therapist. Highly would recommend her services. As for the scheduling I went through the online booking again and actually got a response back within 10 minutes confirming my appointment. I spoke with julieta before my left and she listened intently and with care as I explained my frustration and validated me through the short conversation. I can say that I will continue to come here and getting great care from their massage therapist.Previous post:I have been coming to this spa for massages one and off for a few years now. I have always had a pretty good experience however today was not that case. I had set an online appointment before they opened which showed in their website and schedule to be available. I recieved confirmation that I would be texted to confirm, well 45 minutes after they opened I had still not gotten a confirmation so I went in at the time I scheduled which was 1015, I was told by the masseuse at the computer desk that my appointment was not confirmed, I then said you guys open at 9 it is now 10 a.m. why was I not updated with confirmation if my appointment was accepted or not. I was told we must have been busy. And basically that since it was not cinfirmed then I should have known. They offered to schedule me for 4 p.m tonight which does not work. I left and as I was walking out the door I then recieved the text saying my appointment request was not accepted. Each time I come I spend well over 120 dollars plus tip for one massage and I do it gladly, this lack of care from the staff or even acknowledgeing the frustration makes it to where I have to consider coming back again. In the end massages are good customer service not so, i would not recommend.

Brandon Johnson

01:12 03 Sep 23

Edit: 09/02 better experience this time due to Rachel who was my therapist. Highly would recommend her services. As for the scheduling I went through the...

E Brandon J.

18:16 02 Sep 23

I couldn’t be more pleased with this spa. Rachel, the massage therapist I had was incredible. I’ve only had a handful of massages in my life so I went in not feeling super comfortable and didn’t know exactly what to expect. But she explained everything and immediately put me at ease. I did the deep tissue massage, she was extremely intuitive and experienced, she pin pointed every problematic area without me having to say anything.I will be returning, five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

NATE THE WINDOW WASHER

20:20 31 Aug 23

We come here often and have never been disappointed. They always treat us so well, and the energy there is very peaceful and welcoming. Thank you for providing the space for healing.

Jeni Lyn

03:26 22 Aug 23

Great massage! And will be going back for another…. 4 stars because the room/building is old, has an old building smell, and needs a lot of repairs. I think the massage therapists are well trained! Professional and respectful. Like I said “great massage”

Greg Farnsworth

03:56 25 Jul 23

Yowza! I just had one of the best deep tissue massages I've ever had. Rachel was super personable and very expressive/willing to share her knowledge with me during my visit. I even got some stretching tips and I will be back just for her! The building was clean and I was super comfy the whole time. Very relaxing atmosphere, as well. My legs thank you!!

Sara Vermaas

10:07 27 May 23

Richard H. is amazing - I’ve been going to him consistently for years now, and he’s officially the best. I love that his massages are very dynamic. He uses multiple methods to understand your body as opposed to just finding a spot and sticking to it. All staff are so professional and friendly, and each experience is so relaxing.

Taylor Christensen

19:09 22 Apr 23

Our appts were on time, the therapists were knowledgeable & polite, & the facility was clean & tidy with a peaceful atmosphere.

Aaron Sutton

14:09 26 Feb 23

This place was great!

Cristal Balcazar

20:12 21 Feb 23

First time going to a spa it's is one of the Best massage I've ever had! The staff is really friendly. Great service!

Jessica G.

12:57 04 Feb 23

My husband took me here for my birthday and it was beyond amazing and so relaxing!

Meagan Graham

00:44 31 Jan 23

I have been coming to Matrix Spa & Massage for about 5 years now and can always get in quickly. I made an appointment yesterday because I woke up with an extremely sore neck from sleeping wrong which resulted in a massive migraine (that I often suffer from) and I left feeling clear headed and amazing! Frederick Salt provided one of the best massages I have ever received. He took the time to listen to my needs and put real attention and care into his practice. He has a ton of experience in massage therapy and I would recommend him to anyone needing a great massage that’s well worth the money.

Erika Pehrson

17:45 19 Jan 23

This place is interesting and my therapist was definitely unique. He only massaged my upper body and told me to breathe into my collar bone and other instructions that I didn't quite know how to follow. My elbow was sore for a day or two after. I do think he was genuinely trying to help, but I would have liked more explanation of what was the rationale behind the movements and instructions. I also would have preferred to have received some work on the legs, but again 60 minutes sometimes isn't enough time I guess. Other members of group liked there experience more and described there massages very positively. The offer to return gratis by the owners in their comments below is a nice sentiment and a testament to how they care for their business. (Unfortunately I was visiting from out of town so cannot do so but again appreciate it)

Stephen Becker

11:47 25 Oct 22

Donna May rocked my world - the best massage I've gotten in salt lake so far and I've tried a few different spas at this point. The level of pressure, the intuition, the obvious mastery of her craft - cannot recommend her enough. She is a neck wizard.

Natalia Baykova

13:41 26 Sep 22

Best Massage I have ever had. Donna May provided a relaxing and therapeutic massage. She always had the perfect amount of pressure and seemed to tailor the massage just to me. I will book with Donna May as often as I can. She is also such a kind person.

Kendrick Woolstenhulme

00:34 26 Sep 22

Well worth it!My wife and I were needing time to unwind and relax, I bought the Emerald Package, it was well worth the money! The amount of time and detail the staff took us was amazing. We left feeling relaxed and ready to tackle the world again. We are going to be coming back. The spa downstairs was amazing, what a way to finish off the night after a massage. Thank you for making our night!

C C

15:57 22 Jul 22

There are so many good things to say about this place. The biggest shout out to Donna May who gave me the best deep tissue massage I’ve ever had in my life. Repeat: the BEST deep tissue massage I’ve ever had IN MY LIFE. The price was $95 for an hour.Other pros: they got me in on a Sunday.The facility is very clean.They have optional spa upgrades (see photos).Cons: They have this required form where you have to fill out medical information. I don’t like providing my medical information and it wasn’t necessary for this type of appointment.The booking process could be simpler but it’s not a make or break.Overall, I had a nice time and look forward to booking with Donna May in the future.

Quaceé Dorby

08:20 19 Jul 22

Donna, Jackie and Juiletta were amazing!!! Loved all of it worth every penny!!!!

Nique Mower

23:31 16 Jul 22

Able to get appointments quickly, wonderful massages and the whole hydrotherapy downstairs was amazing

Christina R.

20:34 03 Jul 22

My mom and I did the mother and daughter package and overall it was a really awesome experience! The place was under construction but they were able to accommodate our needs, the only downside is I never even knew our massage therapists names and I am kinda bummed about not being able to utilize the hot tub or sauna but I guess that means I’ll just have to come back another time! (:

Kamerra H

15:48 23 May 22

I had the best deep tissue massage of my life there, Richard is the best therapist! I highly recommend him for sore muscles and back problems.

Viktoriya Semeykina

03:08 30 Apr 22

I love this place, I recommend this place to everyone

masterartist04

00:14 29 Apr 22

Excellent massage for myself and my husband. It was my first massage and it was a pleasant experience

S Havens

20:58 24 Apr 22

Here at Matrix massage, Rachel was extremely skilled and attentive to my lower back issues. Fantastic massage, just the right pressure and incredible...

Richard S.

14:55 14 Feb 22

Amazing therapists. I love their hydro circuit. sauna has helped my pain in so many ways. If you're going to come here and get a massage definitely book a...

Donna May L.

14:40 03 Sep 21

My first time visiting Matrix and I somehow booked the wrong service, but I'm not even mad about it! (I booked Thai massage online but when I got there,...

Kelly C.

15:58 07 Aug 21

This spa was amazing! A group of us went there this past Friday for a Bachelorette Party! This is the only spa in SLC that has any packages or deals for a...

Brynn P.

11:09 13 Aug 18