There is no shortage of experts, web sites, and books offering their own versions of deep tissue massage therapy. In general, this is a method that works on lower muscle groups and the connective tissue quite thoroughly. This is not a massage technique for wimps as it is a method that’s marked by slower strokes and heavy pressure that’s way more vigorous than the average massages. A deep tissue massage is more likely to be significantly more uncomfortable than a Swedish massage because the pressure utilized in this form of bodywork is more forceful and the massage itself is extremely concentrated on certain regions of tension.
Deep tissue massage utilizes friction and deep muscle compression along the grain of the muscle. This form of bodywork is also known as deep tissue therapy or deep muscle therapy that’s concentrated on the muscle tissue’s deeper layers and requires a lot of strength and skill than a Swedish massage. This is also a massage that originated in Europe although it is quite different from Swedish massage in its effects and focus.
The objective of deep tissue massage is to modify posture, generate mechanical change in the body, and generate freedom of motion by releasing chronic muscle contracture and fascial adhesions. It can be an extremely intense experience. For that “hurts so good” feeling, it takes you right to the edge of your pain threshold without crossing it.
People taking blood-thinning drugs, with a history of phlebitis or blood clotting, who have recently undergone surgery or injury, or those with a contagious condition or fever should not be given deep tissue massage. This massage is also not advisable for people suffering from long-term or acute mental health problems. It should only be done in a gentle manner until the person is able to tolerate greater force. Deep tissue massage works very well when the client has some experience and understanding about the massage and the therapist has advanced training in this technique. Deep tissue massage is not always a full body massage.
Using friction, direct pressure, or slow strokes on the problem area, deep tissue massage can be used to free up longstanding patterns of muscle tension. It can help with extended computer work, excessive fitness training, poor posture, help relieve stress and any other activities that abuse the muscles that in turn, can result in headaches, neck pain, back pain, and muscle stiffness.
Deep tissue massage is also used to heal people who are recuperating from sports injuries and accidents since it can boost blood flow to underused muscles. It can alleviate chronic muscle tension all over the body and can break down “knots” and scar tissue lying deep in the muscles. Deep tissue massage can also resolve the underlying cause of pain (such as arthritis or tendinitis) and is usually used to reach the underlying tissue or deep within the muscle to relieve pain. In 2005, it was reported that deep tissue massage is a more effective treatment than glucosamine, chiropractic, diet, acupuncture in Overland Park, drugs, exercise and physical therapy.
Deep tissue massage can also help release connective tissue (myofascial) limitations in the body and eliminate or break up any limiting scar tissue.
Deep tissue massage can also help break down adhesion in connective tissue and muscle, which is typical in areas of body tension and after injury.