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  • HOME
  • ABOUT ME
  • SERVICES
    • SWEDISH MASSAGE
    • SPORTS MASSAGE
    • REFLEXOLOGY
    • CHAIR MASSAGE
    • SHIATSU
    • YOGA
    • AROMATHERAPY
  • APPOINTMENT
  • BLOG
  • GIFT CARDS
  • OILS
  • COURSES

Massage Modalities

July 9, 2019
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chair massage, Massage, massage therapy, reflexology, SHIATSU, SPORTS MASSAGE, swedish massage
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Posted by Mauricio Bertone

Massage modalities explained

Massage modalities are the different styles, techniques, and approaches a massage therapist may use during a session. Each modality has a different purpose. Some are focused on relaxation, some are more specific to muscle tension or movement, and others are used to support recovery after repetitive stress, activity, or general overuse.

At Massage by Bertone, the session is planned around your goals, comfort level, health history, and the way your body responds during the appointment. The best massage is not always the deepest massage. It is the one that is appropriate for you on that day.

Common goals of massage therapy

Massage therapy may help support:

  • General relaxation and stress reduction
  • Muscle tension relief
  • Improved comfort and ease of movement
  • Recovery after physical activity
  • Body awareness and nervous system calming

Massage is not a replacement for medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a new injury, unexplained pain, swelling, fever, numbness, or a medical condition that may affect massage safety, it is best to check with your healthcare provider first.

Choosing the right approach

Different massage modalities can be blended within the same session. For example, a session may begin with slower relaxation-focused work, then shift into more specific attention for the neck, shoulders, back, hips, or legs. Pressure can always be adjusted. Clear communication helps make the session more effective and more comfortable.

Some clients prefer Swedish massage for relaxation. Others may benefit from focused therapeutic work, sports massage, chair massage, or aromatherapy support when appropriate. The right approach depends on your goals and any precautions that may apply.

Learn more

You can read more about massage reasons to get a massage at American Massage Therapy Association

To explore the services offered by Massage by Bertone, click here

Updated service guide note

Updated August 2026: If you are comparing massage modalities, the best next step is to choose the session goal first: relaxation, pain relief, sports recovery, or aromatherapy. Start with the current massage services page, then use the appointment page when you are ready.

Tags
chair massage
massage modalities
massage therapy
reflexology
shiatsu
Sports Massage
swedish massage
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POLICIES

From me:

  • Consistently client-centered professional work.
  • Respectful personal and professional boundaries,
    using proper draping techniques.
  • Hygienic equipment, including the table, sheets, and towels.
  • Commitment to a high standard of practice including staying current
    with professional advancements, techniques, and best practices.
  • Services for which I am qualified and refer you to an appropriate specialist
    when the work is not within the scope of my practice and/or not in your best interest.
  • Accurate records and review charts before each session.
  • I will customize my treatment to meet the client’s needs.
  • Privacy and confidentiality are maintained at all times.
  • If I need to cancel an appointment I will do so within 12 hours whenever possible.
    When re-scheduling a session that I canceled, I will make a priority to provide the earliest appointment
    in my calendar to fit your schedule.

From you:

  • Complete online intake form.
  • Be of legal age (States of NY and NJ).
  • Please provide a health history at the first session and updates when necessary.
  • Agree to honestly answer questions about COVID-19 screening, and report any signs and symptoms before/after the session.
  • Understand that when you are scheduling a session, you will receive the session if you give express consent to receive massage therapy.
  • Sessions will begin and end as scheduled. Late arrivals receive the remaining allotted time and require full payment.
  • There is a 12-hour cancellation policy. Payment is required with less notice unless the time slot can be filled.
  • Cleanliness is expected.
  • Sexual harassment is not tolerated.
  • Therapist’s office is a non-smoking environment.
  • Payment is required at the end of the session.
    Pay an Outstanding Balance

    Pay securely by card or Apple Pay on a compatible Apple device.

Massage therapy services are not a substitute for examination, diagnosis, or treatment by a physician. The individual providing massage therapy services are not qualified to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any physical or mental illness and are not eligible to perform spinal or skeletal adjustments. The information this website is providing is educational.

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Massage Modalities Explained | Massage by Bertone