What is bodywork?

Common forms of bodywork include craniosacral therapy and massage therapy. It also includes movement-focused therapy, like the Feldenkrais method. And it includes pressure-point therapy, like acupressure or shiatsu. There are many types of massage, including deep tissue massage, neuromuscular or trigger point therapy, sports massage, and Swedish massage.

Bodywork uses manipulation therapies. The therapies are used to relax you and relieve pain. The goal is to realign and reposition the body. This may allow the body to move in a natural, graceful way.

The idea behind bodywork is that people learn or, through injury or stress, are forced into unnatural ways of moving or holding their body. This can cause discomfort and may contribute to health problems. Bodywork, along with finding any causes of unnatural movement and posture, is thought to reduce stress and ease pain.

Bodywork can be safe when your health professional is qualified and experienced. Talk with your doctor before you start any bodywork. You can then choose the best form of bodywork for your specific condition.

People may use bodywork to help relax and to relieve stress. It may also be used to reduce pain from muscle and joint problems. These problems include arthritis and fibromyalgia. How effective bodywork is has not been proved.