According the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor and Statistics, as of 2010 there are more than 80 types of massage practiced in the United States. Depending upon the type of massage being performed, different supplies may be required. Regardless of the type of massage, the materials used for massage assist the massage therapist with providing a massage that is beneficial to both client and therapist.
Equipment
Based on “Introduction to Massage Therapy,” massage equipment allows the massage therapist access to various parts of the client’s body while assisting the client to be comfortable during the massage. Massage tables, chairs and mats are the types of equipment used during massage. The equipment used during a massage depends upon the type of massage being performed. Massage tables are four-legged, padded tables the client lies on while the massage therapist provides a massage from a standing position. Clothed, seated massage is performed with the client seated on a massage chair. Some Eastern forms of massage, such as shiatsu and Thai massage, are done with the client laying on a mat on the floor.
Lubricants
Lubricants improve the massage experience for the client by decreasing friction between the massage therapist and client’s skin, explain authors Mary Beth Braun and Stephanie Simonson in “Introduction to Massage Therapy.” Oils, creams, lotions and gels are lubricants used during massage. The type of lubricant varies, depending upon client and massage therapist preference. Of the lubricants available, oils cost less and last the longest. Many lubricants contain allergens, such as scents or nut oils, so it is important to be aware of massage therapist and client allergies. Not all forms of massage require lubricants. Swedish and deep tissue massage do use lubricants.
Accessories
Accessories are optional items which assist with decreasing physical strain of the massage therapist while increasing comfort for the client. There are a variety of accessories to choose from. The accessories chosen are determined by the type of massage provided and client and massage therapist needs and preferences. Bolsters help to support the client’s body when lying in different positions on a massage table or mat. Pregnancy bolsters are a type of bolster designed to support the expectant mother. Face cradles accompany massage tables and chairs to provide head and face support. Table extensions provide additional support to a massage table by lengthening or widening the table. Massage tools assist the massage therapist with applying massage techniques.
