Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage focuses on reaching the deeper layers of muscles and connective tissues in the body and is specifically designed to alleviate chronic muscle tension and pain. The main differences between deep tissue massage and regular massage can be summarized in three key points.
Key Differences In Deep Tissue Massage
- Focus of the areas of the body are usually back, neck, and shoulders
- The pressure applied during deep tissue massage is greater than in regular massage to access the deeper layers of muscle tissue
- Deep tissue massage uses more intense and focused techniques, such as deep pressure, kneading, and friction, to break up adhesions and knots in the muscles.
Focus Areas Of The Body
Generally speaking Deep Tissue Massage is designed to target specific areas of the body that are experiencing chronic pain, tension, or discomfort. Most often these are the body parts that require deep tissue treatment.
Back
The deep tissue massage usually target the muscles of the upper, middle, and lower back to alleviate pain and built up tension.
Neck and Shoulders
Deep tissue massage is effective in relieving tension and stiffness in the neck and shoulders that is usually caused by poor posture, stress, or injury.
Legs
Most people experience pain and tension in the muscles of the legs, including the hamstrings, quadriceps, and calves so deep tissue massage is perfect for alleviating the discomfort in the leg area.
Feet
Deep tissue massage is great for alleviating tension in feet and calves. It also helps with improving circulation.
Arms
When we think about massage, we often forget about arms and forearms, biceps and triceps but these areas can be subjected to great tenson. Deep tissue massage typically involves these body parts too.
Applied Pressure
As the name suggests deep tissue massage involves the application of firm and deep pressure to the muscles, fascia, and connective tissues of the body. By applying more pressure your therapist can break up knots or adhesions in the muscles to provide you with a relief from chronic tension or pain. Deep tissue massage promotes healing in affected areas by increasing the blood flow to them.
Used Techniques
The massage therapist will use their hands, fingers, forearms, elbows, or other specialized tools to ensure that the right pressure is applied to the targeted areas. Below are some of the techniques your therapist may use to access the deep tissues during the massage.
Body Positioning
The massage therapist may ask you to to lie on your side with a pillow between your legs. Or you may be asked to lie face-down on the massage table with your arms extended above your head.
Movements
Typically slow, controlled movements such as sweeping strokes or circular motions are used for accessing deeper layers of muscle tissue which help breaking up knots and adhesions in the muscles.
Friction
Your therapist will most likely use circular or back-and-forth movements to generate heat and create friction in the muscle tissue. This helps with blood circulation in the target areas.
Trigger Point Therapy
By applying pressure to specific points in the muscle tissue that are known to cause pain or discomfort, the massage therapist can help to alleviate pain and tension in the surrounding muscles.
What precautions should be considered when having a deep tissue massage?
Pain: While some discomfort may be experienced during a deep tissue massage, it is important that you communicate with the massage therapist if the pressure becomes too intense or if unbearable pain is experienced.
Bruising: Deeper pressure during massage can lead to bruising, especially if the you are using blood thinners or have naturally sensitive skin.
Recent Injuries: Deep tissue massage may not be appropriate for individuals with recent injuries, as it may exacerbate the injury or delay the healing process.
Medical Conditions: It is important for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as osteoporosis or deep vein thrombosis, to consult with a healthcare provider before receiving deep tissue massage.
What are the benefits of deep tissue massage?
Alleviation of Chronic Pain in various areas of the body, including the back, neck, shoulders, and legs.
Improved Range of Motion and Flexibility by breaking up knots and adhesions in the muscles
Reduced Stress and increased relaxation by releasing built up tension in the muscles.
Improved Posture by alleviating discomfort associated with poor posture especially in the back, neck, and shoulders area.
Get in touch to book a massage therapy session with one of our experts that are trained to provide you with the most relaxing experience! Please note it is very important that you communicate any discomfort or concerns during the massage, so that the therapist can adjust the treatment accordingly. Your needs and feedback are of the utmost importance to us, especially at this wonderful time of your life.