Body Massage

What is massage and how does it work?

Stroking, rubbing, kneading, stretching and pressure warm the tissues and act on local blood and lymph flow. Many people describe less muscle tension and deep relaxation afterwards. Types differ in pressure, pace and purpose:

• Relaxing: classic massage, aroma massage with essential oils, and head massage without oils.
• Deeper muscle work: sports massage and Signature therapy, which can combine techniques.
• Gentle and slow: manual lymphatic drainage, following the superficial lymph pathways.
• Intensive, by area: anti-cellulite massage for the thighs, buttocks, abdomen and hips.

Massages at Melior Clinics

• Signature massage therapy – a tailored session that may combine classic, deep-tissue, aromatherapy and reflexology techniques; 90 minutes.
• Classic massage – back and body, 45, 60 or 75 minutes.
• Sports massage – deeper muscle layers and stretching, 60 or 90 minutes.
• Lymphatic drainage massage – slow, gentle movements, 60 or 90 minutes.
• Aroma massage – essential oils chosen for your needs, 60 minutes.
• Head massage – head, neck and shoulders, seated or lying, no oils; 45 or 60 minutes.
• Anti-cellulite massage – thighs, buttocks, abdomen and hips, 60 minutes.
• Prices – the full price list.

Facial massages are under Facial massage, other body treatments under Body treatments.

What happens during a massage?

Before the first session the specialist asks about your health, chronic conditions, medicines, allergies and pregnancy. Pressure and pace can be adjusted at any time.

• Preparation: a light meal 1–2 hours before, and no hard workout just before.
• Duration: 45–90 minutes.
• Frequency: classic massage usually weekly or as needed; lymphatic drainage 1–2 times a week; sports massage 1–2 times a month for people who train; anti-cellulite massage as a course of 6–10 sessions, 2–3 times a week.

Who should not have a massage?

• fever, acute inflammation or a viral illness;
• skin or soft-tissue infections, rashes, open wounds;
• deep vein thrombosis, phlebitis or a high risk of blood clots;
• bleeding disorders;
• fresh injuries or recent surgery in the area;
• serious heart or kidney disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure;
• cancer – only with your own doctor's approval.

For aroma massage, allergy to essential oils, asthma and epilepsy are added. The final decision is made by the specialist at the consultation.

After the massage

Deep relaxation or drowsiness is common, so a few quiet minutes help. After a firmer massage muscles may be tender the next day, and anti-cellulite massage can leave small bruises; both usually pass in 1–2 days. Drinking water and a day without hard exercise are advised. Saunas and hot baths are not recommended for 24 hours after anti-cellulite massage, nor saunas and hot showers for 4–6 hours after aroma massage.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between classic and sports massage?

Classic massage is generally soothing. Sports massage is more intensive, works deeper muscle layers and can focus on areas such as the legs, back or neck; it also suits people with tension from desk work.

Does massage hurt?

Classic, aroma and lymphatic massage are gentle. Sports and anti-cellulite massage are firmer but should not hurt; pressure is adjusted to you.

Can I have a massage during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is listed as a contraindication for classic, Signature, lymphatic, aroma and anti-cellulite massage. For others the specialist decides beforehand.

Can I have lymphatic drainage after aesthetic treatments?

Yes, it is also used after surgery and aesthetic treatments such as fillers or laser, but your own doctor or the specialist who did the treatment should be consulted first.

The service is provided by Melior Clinics (Star Company OÜ, Estonian Health Board licence L04198), Liivalaia 53, Tallinn, Stockmann department store, 5th floor.