Therapeutic massage works directly on the muscles and tissues using various pressure, mobilization, and relaxation techniques, particularly to help relieve pain, muscle tension, and stiffness.

Microkinetic therapy uses much gentler palpation to identify, according to the principles of the method, the traces left in the tissues by physical or emotional events. The therapist then applies small manual stimulations designed to support the body’s natural regulatory mechanisms.

The two approaches therefore differ in their techniques, principles, and objectives, even though both can be considered in the treatment of physical tension.