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Swedish massage

Key facts

  • Swedish massage is one of the most common types of massage therapy.
  • It may be used for relaxation, stress relief and to relieve pain.
  • Swedish massage involves a therapist rubbing, kneading, stroking and tapping your muscles.
  • If you want to try Swedish massage and you have pain or a health condition, talk to your doctor first.

What is Swedish massage?

Swedish massage is one of the most popular forms of massage therapy. It may be used for:

The techniques used in Swedish massage are generally designed to encourage blood flow to your heart and improve circulation.

What does a Swedish massage involve?

Swedish massage involves a therapist:

  • rubbing and kneading your muscles
  • tapping your muscles
  • moving your joints

The most common techniques used during a Swedish massage are:

  • effleurage — the use of long, gliding strokes on your limbs, head and along your spine
  • petrissage — strong strokes on your back and shoulders

Before your massage begins, your massage therapist will talk to you about your health and lifestyle.

You'll be asked to lie on a massage table. Areas of your body that aren't being treated can be covered with a towel or sheet, if you prefer.

Your massage therapist may use oils to help their hands glide over your skin smoothly and relax you.

What are the health benefits of Swedish massage?

Many people use Swedish massage for simple relaxation. It can also be used to help with physical conditions and has been shown to help relieve:

Swedish massage can also be used to help people cope better with:

If you plan to try Swedish massage to help with a health condition or injury, you should speak to your doctor first.

Preparing for an appointment? Check our page on questions to ask your doctor for general tips on what to ask your GP or specialist.

What are the possible risks and side effects of Swedish massage?

Swedish massage therapy is generally considered safe, but as with all therapies, side effects can occur.

In some people seeking treatment for pain, there is a small risk of massage therapy making their pain worse. The risk is higher if you are treated by an unqualified massage therapist.

Other possible side effects include:

In some situations, Swedish massage should be avoided. If you want to try massage to relieve the symptoms of a health issue, speak to your doctor first.

Massage might not be right for you if you have:

ASK YOUR DOCTOR — Preparing for an appointment? The Pain Question Planner can help you create a list of questions for your doctor.

Resources and support

You can visit healthdirect's massage therapy guide to:

  • learn more about different types of massage available
  • get advice on choosing a massage therapist

Use healthdirect's free service finder to locate your nearest health provider. You can search for services such as:

Always look for a therapist who is registered so that you know they are properly trained. You can find a therapist in your area through:

FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.

Last reviewed: June 2025

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