What is Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep tissue massage is a massage technique targeted toward treating musculoskeletal issues, such as sports injuries and strains. The technique involves applying slow and sustained pressure with deep strokes that target the innermost layers of the connective tissues and muscles.
According to research published in 2018, deep tissue massage relaxes and lengthens deep tissues. It increases the range of motion of the affected part and helps in pain management. Deep tissue massage therapy also promotes blood flow and decreases inflammation.
Read more to learn about the pros and cons of a deep tissue massage.
Pros of a Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage is believed to have both psychological and physical benefits. The focus of this massage is more on treating muscle pain and tension, but it can help you mentally relax and unwind too.
Reduce Blood Pressure
Deep tissue massage may help reduce blood pressure. However, there is limited data to prove this, and more studies are required.
Help Back Pain
Many people get deep tissue massages to relieve their back pain. The pain is usually caused by contracted and tensed muscles, and the technique involving slow deep motions can relieve muscle tension and increase blood flow. Deep tissue massage increases the level of serotonin in the body, relieving pain in the back and legs.
A study conducted in 2017 reviewed the effect of deep tissue massage. The study included 31 males with arthritis. The participants were divided into two groups.
One group received therapeutic massage, while the other received deep tissue massage. All the patients had ten thirty-minute massage sessions over a fortnight.
According to the results, deep tissue massage was more helpful in reducing back pain.
Pregnancy
Deep tissue massage's effects were studied in pregnant women. It's believed that this massage can relieve leg and back pain in pregnant women.
A case study published in 2016 proposed that deep tissue massage may reduce lower back pain in a 28 years old pregnant woman.
The subject received twelve sessions of deep tissue massage twice a week. Each session was thirty minutes long. Afterwards, she reported a decrease in lower back pain.
Recovery After Injury
There is research suggesting that deep tissue massage can aid in the recovery process. This means that deep tissue massage therapy can speed up your recovery if you have any muscle injury, for example, an ankle injury.
Deep tissue massage can aid the recovery process in many ways, including:
- Restore range of motion
- Reduce swelling or fluid buildup by improving circulation
- Relieve muscle stiffness and pain
- Speed up the recovery process after muscle sprains and strain
Cons of Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage is a little different from a regular Swedish massage. It involves more firm motions and techniques, so it's common to have soreness for some days following the massage. Soreness can last a little longer if it's your first time getting a deep tissue massage.
It's also not unusual to feel mild pain and discomfort, particularly when your therapist will target problem areas. You can always inform your therapist if it gets too painful for you.
In general, deep massage has minimal risks, but it may not be a suitable option for everyone. If you have an underlying health issue, you should talk to your doctor before getting deep tissue massage therapy. If you fall under any of these criteria, talk to your doctor before getting a massage.
- taking blood thinners
- have a history of clotting disorder
- are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation
- have bleeding disorder
Harmful for Osteoporosis Patients
If a person has osteoporosis or their cancer has spread to the bones, they must avoid opting for deep tissue massage. This massage technique involves firm pressure that may fracture bones.
It's better to inform your practitioner if you are pregnant so they can apply pressure accordingly.
You also shouldn't get a deep tissue massage if you have an open wound or skin infection to avoid risking your infection becoming worse or developing a new infection.
If you want to get deep tissue massage, it's better to look for massage places that have trained therapists. Deep tissue massage is a massage type that requires expert skills and techniques, or else you can get sore and painful muscles. Eden Massage is one of the best massage spas in Fayetteville, NC. They have licensed and trained Asian massage therapists who focus on your overall health and well-being.
Besides deep tissue massage, they also offer Swedish, Shiatsu, and sports massage in Fayetteville, NC. Contact them to learn more about their services.
About the Author
The author is a licensed massage therapist with an experience of over 10 years. She loves to help people by sharing everything she has learned in her line of work.
