Although both Chinese massage and ordinary massage (such as leisure massage and SPA massage) are called “Massage” in English, there are significant differences between the two in many aspects:

1. Theoretical basis

Chinese massage is based on the theory of Chinese meridians and the principle of syndrome differentiation and treatment, emphasizing the adjustment of qi and blood and the balance of yin and yang.

Ordinary massage mainly focuses on muscle relaxation and fatigue relief, and has no systematic medical theory support.

2. Techniques

Chinese massage uses professional medical techniques, such as acupoint pressing, tendon massage, bone setting, etc., to adjust physical problems in a targeted manner.

Ordinary massage mainly uses comfortable techniques such as kneading and pressing, focusing on relaxation rather than treatment.

3. Effects

Chinese massage has the function of treating diseases (such as cervical spondylosis, lumbar muscle strain) and regulating physical constitution (such as insufficient qi and blood).

Ordinary massage only provides short-term relaxation and cannot achieve therapeutic effects.

4. Operator qualifications

Chinese massage must be performed by a certified Chinese medicine practitioner or a professional massage therapist, who must have medical knowledge.

Ordinary massage can be provided by SPA technicians or leisure masseurs, and there is no strict medical qualification requirement.

5. Applicable people

Chinese massage is suitable for people with clear symptoms (such as joint pain) or sub-health conditions (such as insomnia, fatigue).

Ordinary massage is suitable for healthy people for daily relaxation and stress relief.

For diseases such as cervical spondylosis, waist and leg pain, Chinese massage can provide significant therapeutic effects, while ordinary massage can only provide temporary relief.