CONCERN: RELAXATION
A typical “Swedish” massage will do the trick, with some light to medium pressure, depending on your preference. However, a note on pressure: If you want light, this will actually be more stimulating than moderate pressure. If you want a little relaxation and pain relief, opt for the moderate pressure as this will be able to stimulate pressure receptors (nerves that convey pain reduction signals to the brain).
CONCERN: ARTHRITIS
Swedish massage will be the ticket for arthritis. It is enough to relax muscles and tendons, help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and improve range of motion.
This is a great article for arthritis sufferers:
http://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/treatments/natural/other-therapies/massage/massage-benefits.php
CONCERN: LOW BACK PAIN
A therapeutic massage would be the best treatment for this. A combination of myofascial release, Swedish massage and deep tissue work aims to treat the various reasons behind low back pain. Myofascial release will help to work out fascial adhesions that often cause pain and “knots”. Swedish massage will work to improve circulation, restore mobility/ROM, and decrease pain. Deep tissue work will aim to work underlying muscles that can often be dysfunctional, leading to/causing chronic pain.
Read more about massage and chronic low back pain: http://annals.org/aim/article/747008/comparison-effects-2-types-massage-usual-care-chronic-low-back
CONCERN: TRAPS/SHOULDER AREA
Depending on your specific concern, either Swedish or therapeutic massage would be applied to the areas. For issues such as tight muscles and occasional stiffness, this modalities may be enough to treat your concern. If you have a bigger medical issue such as frozen shoulder, more intensive technique may be used (in conjunction with physical therapy, your PCP, etc). If you think you have frozen shoulder, get a diagnosis from your doctor and check out this great video for self-care you should try before attempting anything invasive:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Oc0_SvjUOA