In this guide, we look at the most popular and relaxing spa treatments. You’ll often find this treatment as part of a spa package, so read on to learn all about back, neck and shoulder massages.
What is a back, neck and shoulder massage?
Most spas offer their own take on this popular massage style, which targets the upper body and is based on the technique used in Swedish massage. Around 30 to 40 minutes, a back, neck and shoulder massage is a shorter treatment than a full body massage. These normally last between 50 and 90 minutes and include the arms, legs, hands and occasionally your face, scalp and feet.
Although the therapist tends to use a light to medium touch unless you request deep pressure, the pressure on the back, neck and shoulders can vary. A good spa therapist will be willing to tailor the message to suit your personal preferences. Variations of the classical back, neck and shoulder technique include back, neck and scalp (or head) massage and the Chinese-based Dain Tao face, neck and shoulder massage therapy. Many facials include some neck and shoulder and/or face massage (usually done while doing a face mask).
What happens during a back, neck and shoulder massage?
Back, neck and shoulder massage, sometimes back, arms and legs are softened before a body massage using a ‘body brush’, rough mitt or exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin cells on the surface of the skin and stimulate lymph circulation. To help the body’s natural detoxification process. Usually, your spa therapist will ask what kind of pressure you need, then adjust it to work on the tight lower back, or loosen any muscular knots, usually located between the shoulder blades and shoulder blades. This treatment sometimes includes a soothing head massage, which, take it from us, is bliss!
What to expect after your treatment
It is best not to book a dinner or meeting immediately after your spa treatment. Find out why in our tips – with tips to help you get the most out of your spa treatment right after your massage session!
Best for:
Alleviating tension and muscle tension in the back area due to desk restriction or sitting work.
When the clock is running short, however, you don’t want to miss out on a much-needed break.
Exposing the skin on your back before a special event (wearing a backless dress or a beach holiday, for example). If a background cleaner is not part of the treatment, you can always buy an ‘add-on’ to your package.
Dry and nourish dry skin using a carrier and/or aromatherapy oils.
Improved blood circulation, muscle tone, increased lymph and blood circulation and detoxification.
Think twice…
…if you want to massage your hands, arms and legs. Since back, neck and shoulder treatments only focus on these limited areas of the body, it may be better to book a full body massage.
Did you know this?
When massaging the back, massage therapists are trained to massage the muscles on both sides, never the victim’s spinal cord itself.
A back, neck and shoulder massage can be purchased as part of a Spa Day gift from our Spa Vouchers page.
