Massage

In my experience with massage, I have thus far done craniosacral therapy and myofascial release. This involves me seeing a massage therapist who works extensively on massaging certain areas of my neck, shoulders, and head. After the first two sessions I felt sore for a few hours, this eventually went away though. Thus far I have noticed some improvement with craniosacral therapy and myofascial release.

What is Craniosacral Therapy?

Craniosacral therapy is a method of alternative medicine used by massage therapists, naturopaths, chiropractors and osteopaths, who manually apply a subtle movement of the spinal and cranial bones to bring the central nervous system into harmony. This therapy involves assessing and addressing the movement of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) which can be restricted by trauma to the body, such as through falls, accidents, and general nervous tension. By gently working with the spine, the skull and its cranial sutures, diaphragms, and fascia, the restrictions of nerve passages are eased, the movement of CSF through the spinal cord can be optimized, and misaligned bones can be restored to their proper position. This therapy is said to be particularly useful for mental stress, neck and back pain, migraines, TMJ Syndrome, and for chronic nervous conditions such as fibromyalgia.

What is Myofascial Release?

Myofascial Release is a gentle therapy that consists of a mixture of light stretching and massage work. During a session, the therapist will apply hands-on massage strokes in order to release tension from the bands of the muscles, bones, nerves and joints, by unblocking any scar tissue or adhesions due to injury in the muscles and surrounding tissues. The theory of myofascial release requires an understanding of the fascial system (or connective tissue, which is not to be confused with the word facial). The fascia is a specialized system of the body that has an appearance similar to a spider's web or a sweater.

If you are interested in this topic you could read the Trigger Point Manual by Travell and Simon's; however this book is of technical nature. Instead you could read The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook by Clair Davies, I own a copy myself. The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook: Your Self-Treatment Guide for Pain Relief, Second Edition

References
1. Massage Therapy 101.massagetherapy101.com