Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue is a style of massage therapy that is slower and firmer compared to other massage techniques. This type of massage uses firm pressure and slow strokes and focus on the deepest layers of muscle tissue and fascia. Fascia is the connective tissue that forms our tendons and ligaments surrounds’ all of our muscles and organs. Massage therapy can help reduce pain, inflammation, muscle tension and stress. Because of this, it is also beneficial for chronic conditions and areas that may have scar tissue and a poor range of motion.
Benefits
Deep tissue massage is usually beneficial for the following conditions:
- Low back pain
- Stiff neck
- Upper back pain
- Limited mobility
- Whiplash
- Repetitive strain injury
- Postural problems
- Muscle tension in the hamstrings, glutes, IT band, legs, quadriceps, rhomboids, upper back
- Sciatica
- Athletic Recovery
What to Expect
Deep tissue massage isn’t a stronger version of a relaxation massage. The massage techniques break up scar tissue and physically break down muscle adhesions. The adhesions disrupt circulation, cause pain and cause inflammation.
The therapist will start with light pressure to warm up your muscles. They will use common techniques such as:
- Stripping – The therapist will use thumbs, knuckles, forearms or elbows. As a result, you will feel a gliding pressure along the fibres of your muscles.
- Friction: The pressure is also applied across the grain of your muscles to realign tissue fibres and release any adhesions that cause discomfort.
Does a Deep Tissue Massage Hurt?
During the massage, you may feel some discomfort or pain as the RMT focuses on adhesions or scar tissue. That being said, pain isn’t necessarily a sign of an effective massage. Too much pain and your body will tense up which will make it difficult to reach deeper muscles. Do speak up and let your therapist know if there is discomfort or pain.
Tips
To get the most out of your treatment make sure to do the following:
- Breathe! Relax and breath. This will help the therapist get those deeper muscles and help release tension in your body.
- Drink plenty of water after your treatment. Massage helps stimulate the circulation of blood and the lymphatic system. Water will help flush out toxins.
You most likely will experience some stiffness and soreness in the day or so following your deep tissue massage. Of course, if this pain doesn’t naturally go away, get in touch with your therapist to talk it through.
There are only 68 days until the end of the year to use your extended healthcare benefits. Book in your massage today! https://prairietherapy.janeapp.com/
