Blog article

What is remedial massage?

By HBF
4 minutes
25 February 2022
Man getting a remedial neck massage
Feeling sore? Here’s how remedial massage can help support your recovery from exercise, injury or illness.

Remedial massage is a natural therapy that aims to treat aches, pains and injuries to help the body repair and recover.1

It focuses on treating tense, damaged or knotted muscles and can help manage a number of health conditions, especially those affecting muscles, tendons and bones.1 

While relaxation massages are intended to be soothing, remedial massages aim to relieve pain – and they use specific techniques to do it.

So how could remedial massage help you, and what should you expect? Let's take a closer look.


In this article


What can remedial massage help with?

Remedial massage is commonly used to help people with:1

Along with helping to treat specific problems, remedial massage can support your overall health and wellbeing. For example, it can help to:1

6 things that may help with post-exercise recovery

Types of remedial massage

There are several different techniques a remedial massage therapist may use, such as:2

What does private health insurance cover for remedial massage?

Choosing a remedial massage therapist

It’s important to choose a remedial massage therapist who is registered with an appropriate accrediting body so you know that they’re properly trained and qualified, with a good knowledge of anatomy and physiology. 

What to expect at your appointment

You don’t need a referral for a remedial massage. You can call and book an appointment at any time.

At your appointment, your remedial massage therapist will ask you a few questions about your health and what you’re seeking help with. This will help them to determine the best way to treat you.

Then they will ask you to lie down on a massage bed and ensure you’re comfortable. You will be covered with towels to protect your privacy.1

During your treatment, the pressure of the massage may be strong and deep, or gentle and shallow, depending on what’s being treated.1

Your therapist may use a number of different massage techniques. Remember, you can always ask questions if you want to understand more about what they’re doing and why.

Does health insurance cover remedial massage?

If you’re an HBF member, you can check what you're covered for by logging on to myHBF or calling us on 133 423.


1Healthdirect – Remedial massage

2Australian Natural Therapists Association – Remedial massage therapy



This article contains general information only and does not take into account the health, personal situation or needs of any person. In conjunction with your GP or treating health care professional, please consider whether the information is suitable for you and your personal circumstances.