Definitions and Context
In physical therapy, there is often confusion about the differences between massage and soft tissue mobilization.
The American Medical Association Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) defines therapeutic procedures as "A manner of effecting change through the application of clinical skills and/or services that attempt to improve function." (AMA, 2007). Examples of therapeutic procedures include therapeutic exercise to develop strength and endurance, range of motion and flexibility; neuromuscular re-education of movement, balance and coordination; gait training; and manual therapy techniques (e.g., manual traction).
Terms for manual techniques in physical therapy
Manual therapy techniques (e.g., mobilization/manipulation, manual lymphatic drainage, manual traction), one or more regions
"mobilization/manipulation" includes soft tissue and joint structures
soft tissue mobilization (includes all tissue that is not bone/joint) are manual techniques to improve function and decrease pain by improving tissue mobility (muscle, skin, fascia, tendons and ligaments).
massage therapy: applying pressure with the hands to affect primarily the musculoskeletal, circulatory-lymphatic system and nervous system to treat discomfort or pain
Massage therapy is defined by the AMA as a "passive modality". Passive modalities are physical agents and techniques which primarily effect acute pain and swelling or the pain associated with the exacerbation/reactivation of an acute condition.
Therefore, physical therapists consider tissue healing rates and how the patient/clients pain is contributing to loss of function when selecting the most appropriate manual technique(s) for the individual case.
I have put together a series of brief lectures on manual techniques, including indications, contraindications, and general descriptions of techniques
Notes page for lecture on manual techniques
Christina's lecture on manual techniques - part one
Christina's lecture on manual techniques - part two