What is it?
Unlike more superficial or relaxation body massage, Deep tissue massage focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue, that can sometimes contain knots causing pain and restrictions in a person's normal range of movement. It is especially helpful for chronically tense and contracted areas such as stiff necks, low back tightness, and sore shoulders. Many of the same strokes are used as in Swedish or normal body massage, but the movement is slower and the pressure is deeper and concentrated on areas of tension and pain.
How does it work?
When there is chronic muscle tension or injury, there are usually adhesions (bands of painful, rigid tissue) in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Adhesions can block circulation and cause pain, limit movement, and create inflammation.
Deep tissue massage works by physically breaking down these adhesions to relieve pain and restore normal movement. To do this, the massage therapist uses a technique known as trigger pointing in which painful knots or trigger points are treated with compression. This is usually held for a few seconds, and repeated a few times until the point eases or occasionally disappears. Other painful lumps can be treated with a friction motion applied across the grain of the muscles.
Will deep tissue massage hurt?
At certain points during the massage, most people find there is usually some discomfort and pain. The massage therapist will explain to you when pressure is going to be increased, and it is more likely you will feel pain or discomfort during these points in the massage. During the compression techniques used, the therapist will ask you to give the pain a number on a scale of 1-10. This pain should never go beyond a 7. If it does then the therapist's pressure should ease. Pain or discomfort should be discussed regularly during a deep tissue massage, and the client should not experience lengthy periods of discomfort.
How will I feel after the treatment?
Many people feel very good after a deep tissue massage, relaxed and reenergized. As it is detoxifying, many people feel healthier and leave with a radiant glow. However, as the massage works deep within the muscle fibres, it is also normal to feel some stiffness or pain, which usually subsides within a day or so, and can be relieved by using ice. Light bruising can also be experienced especially from those with sensitive skin. It is normal to feel dehydrated, and ready for bed after a deep massage. Changes in body temperature, as well as feeling a little light headed are also normal reactions after a deep tissue massage.
What do I do after the treatment?
If you are able to take things easy after a massage treatment, then make sure you do just that. Try to keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water; avoid caffeine, smoking or processed foods.
What can it treat?
Unlike classic massage therapy, which is used for relaxation, deep tissue massage usually focuses on a specific problem, such as:
- Chronic pain
- Limited mobility
- Recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash, falls, sports injury)
- Repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
- Postural problems
- Ostearthritis pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Muscle tension or spasm
Rachel Bethell BA.Hons,IEB.Dip,IIHT,VTCT,PREM.Dip