Spa vs Massage: Which one is better?

Most people incorrectly use the words spa and massage interchangeably. They aren’t the same thing, though.

A spa is also called a relaxation massage, while the single word massage usually denotes a clinical, medical or therapeutic massage.

In this article, we’ll give you insight into both of them and how they could both be highly beneficial for your health.

Goal

This is the main difference between the spa massage and clinical massage. They each have an entirely different focus from one another.

The spa massage is conducted with the simple goal of relaxation. It’s done to provide comfort and de-stress to the client in a luxurious way.

It could use any type of massage techniques but mostly they’re similar to Swedish massage and tailored to the client’s preference including the pressure level. Body scrubs, water treatment, mud application, and other techniques might also be applied.

On the other hand, clinical massage is performed as a medical treatment. It provides health benefits like relieving chronic pain, fixing muscular issues or recovering from an injury, increasing blood flow, in addition to the relaxation aspect.

The therapist chooses the most appropriate type of massage and techniques according to the specific condition. It could vary from Swedish massage, myofascial release, sports massage, deep tissue, trigger point release, to aromatherapy or any other techniques. It could also be a variation of several treatments together.

Unlike spa massages’ visits which are mostly random, periodic or even one-time events, clinical massages follow a specific treatment plan and a detailed schedule with a determined number of sessions that are provided by the therapist with subsequent and frequent follow-ups until the condition or ailment is resolved.

Setup

As spa massages are meant for relaxation, the setting encompasses luxuries to create a peaceful atmosphere for the client like calming music, warm lighting, comforting linen, soothing aroma, and beautiful aesthetics all over the place.

More services like a meal or other pampering experiences could also be offered.

The clinical massage concentrates more on functionality. It’s usually done at a clinic or a hospital in a private room with simply a massage table and any other needed tools. Some clinics will also include a nice atmosphere to help the patient relax with gentle music and lighting.

In clinical massage, the session’s time depends on the treatment being offered, while in spa massage, it’s clocked according to the price you pay.

Therapists

Therapists working in both spas and clinics need some kind of training or education before working as massage practitioners at any type of massage providers. However, the level of credentials and experience needed to practice clinical massage is higher than what’s required from a therapist performing spa massages.

Massage practitioners in spas will usually have basic education and training from a college or a school of aesthetics. They’re usually required to be licensed as well.

Massage therapists working in clinics must graduate from a two-year college in addition to having several credentials, continuing education hours, and professional certification or licenses like nursing or physical therapy.

A lot of massage graduates start by working in spas to gain experience while pursuing the needed credentials before moving to the clinical setting after acquiring the needed qualifications to become registered therapists.

Cost

Spa massages are priced according to the level of luxury offered and usually the reputation of the service provider. The sessions are priced by the time, usually in hourly increments, and the other services requested. They’re not covered by insurance and you’re expected to tip.

Clinical massages are fairly standardized following certain laws with specific fees according to the treatment plan and schedule. There’s no tipping and they could qualify for medical insurance coverage, partially or totally.

Final Thoughts

Both types of massages are extremely beneficial when performed well at the right time. It’s a good idea to go for a spa massage every once in a while to relax and relieve some of the everyday stress. On the other hand, a clinical massage could be crucial if you have some chronic pain or a specific health condition.