Deep tissue massage

Overview of Deep Tissue Massage:
Deep Tissue Massage is a variation of Swedish massage that uses slower strokes and more forceful pressure. While typical Swedish massage therapy is performed with relaxation in mind, deep tissue massage is performed to break down painful muscle knots. Deep tissue massage may be slightly uncomfortable at the time it is given, but if it’s done correctly, the benefits are well worth it.

Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage:
Deep tissue massage unties painful knots, or adhesions, so that you can move without pain again. The benefits of deep tissue massage include relief of chronic pain and stiffness and an improved range of motion. Deep tissue massage is used for relief by people with painful diseases such as osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia, and patients with these diseases usually report that they feel better after a session. In fact, in the case of osteoarthritis, a survey conducted by Consumer Reports in 2005 found that patients who used deep tissue massage said it worked better than prescription drugs for relieving pain! However, even healthy people can benefit from having stress or injury-related knots worked out of their muscles.

How Deep Tissue Massage works:
Deep tissue massage works by using pressure to break down knots or adhesions from muscle tissue. The pressure may be applied using various parts of the arm, including fingertips, knuckles and elbows. This can help to break down painful knots or to break up adhesions and scar tissue caused by trauma or injury. Massage therapists using this style of massage usually work against the grain of the muscle. Deep tissue massage also helps eliminate toxins from the muscles, so clients are advised to drink plenty of water to help clean the body after treatment.

Specialized equipment for Deep Tissue Massage:
Padded massage table
Heated massage table
Deep tissue balm
Sports balm

Keywords:
deep tissue, injury, scar tissue, pain, restricted movement, range of motion, soreness, adhesions

History of Deep Tissue Massage:

Compare styles:

• A) Pressure applied: 5/5
• B) Fluidity of stroke-2/5
• C) % of body massaged: 4/5

Preparing for your visit:
Drink plenty of fluids prior to the session and avoid caffeine. Identify areas of pain and stiffness and share with therapist. Also, be prepared to share a history of injury or pain, as this will help the therapist appropriately address problem areas.

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Recommended Resources for Deep Tissue Massage:
An overview of Deep Tissue techniques