Even for regulars of massage, the term deep tissue massage can bring on a bit of confusion. And more commonly, not everyone understands the benefits of deep tissue massage vs regular massage. But that’s about to change.
If you are looking to target specific trouble areas, then deep tissue massage might be just what you need. Think about this. How many times have you had pain in a particular area of your body but just couldn’t seem to reach it? Or, maybe you visited a traditional masseuse and they treated the affected area — but you still didn’t find relief.
Well if you’ve faced any of those problems, read on. We’ve got some solutions for you.
So what is deep tissue massage?
As the name suggests, it’s deep, it targets the core of your underlying tissue all in a single massage session. Think of it as the most bang for your buck type of massage.
Deep tissue massage is a massage therapy used to treat a variety of nagging issues. It’s a great solution for sports injuries in particular. But no matter your ailment: like sprains, strains, muscle cramps, or other deep pains, deep tissue massage can resolve your issue.
Deep tissue massage makes use of basic techniques like percussion (drumming), friction (pressure), effleurage (stroking), and petrissage (kneading). These methods are all used to provide relief to the tissue depending on your specific needs.
Speaking of specifics, let’s go a bit deeper into the primary benefits of deep tissue massage.
Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage helps break up scar tissue formed as a result of injuries deep in the tissue. This, in turn, releases tension and strain in the specific muscle.
Ultimately, this type of treatment induces a process that helps the surrounding tissues receive more blood flow to heal faster.
Primary Benefits Include
- Reduces chronic pain. Are you suffering from constant pain? Use deep tissue massage to relieve your pain today (or the thought of it).
- Relieves Stress. Many people don’t think of deep tissue massage to aid stress reduction, but it does help. In fact, a deep tissue massage session can induce a better sleep pattern as well.
- Relieves arthritis. Deep tissue massage is not a treatment for arthritis, but it will help sufferers manage the condition. Arthritis has to do with scar tissue and muscle stiffness, two areas that deep tissue massage works great on.
- Improves mobility. When joints are stiff, a deep-tissue massage is one of the fastest ways to improve mobility. It’s also an option for people who have been in an accident. Add a deep tissue massage therapy session to your regular physiotherapy sessions to improve any area you’ve found slow to heal.
Others Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage May Include
- Reducing high blood pressure
- Treatment of low back pain and joint pain especially in athletes
- Sports injuries
- Fibromyalgia and general muscle fatigue
- Plantar fasciitis especially helpful for regular or long-distance runners
- Lateral epicondylitis or tennis elbow. This is the inflammation of the elbow due to continuous or repetitive use. This pain starts from the elbow but travels up the upper arm causing discomfort and pain. Golfers may experience similar issues as well.
What to expect from a deep tissue massage?
If this is your first time getting deep tissue massage, get ready. It’s one massage experience you will never forget. But before you book that first appointment, here are some things you need you should know.
It’s called deep tissue for a reason
Unlike other massage techniques that are soft and immediately calming, this massage therapy targets deep musculature with more force to break any scar tissue.
You’ll feel some intense pressure — more than traditional massage
We’re not going to water it down, you will feel some discomfort, and if your pain threshold is low you may say it could hurt. The high level of intensity is a tool that helps concentrate on the underlying tissues deep within and not on the surface.
Even so, with this or any treatment from Matsuno Wellness, we don’t operate to levels of unnecessary pain. Helping you heal and stay within optimal pressure tolerance is our goal.
With all that said one of the primary benefits of deep tissue massage is that you’ll feel immediate relief after your first session is complete.
Basic techniques employed during a massage session
Petrissage or kneading is the best technique to help unlock aching and tense muscles in areas like the neck, shoulder, and upper back region. This kneading action uses a grasp and squeezes method that is deep enough to trigger blood flow and relax the surrounding muscles.
Effleurage or stroking is a slow, controlled, rhythmic movement to create a relaxing effect on the nerves and circulatory system. It also employs the use of the knuckles for increased pressure. A great massage technique to relieve pain in the upper leg and hip region.
Friction or pressure with this type of massage relieves deep muscle pain. This is a great technique for athletes who suffer from torn ligaments or tendons. This method uses the base of the palm or thumb to apply pressure to the area providing relief.
Percussion or drumming is a chopping technique to create movements that relieve stiffness, and pain in the body.
Self-care after treatment
Drink plenty of water. Deep tissue massage is a great way to stimulate effective blood circulation in the body. Proper hydration aids the process and also helps remove toxins and waste that are liberated during a deep tissue massage session.
In conclusion, deep tissue massage has applications for everyone. And one thing is sure, you will feel relieved as all aches and pain fade away with each stroke during treatment.
Next steps
Now that you know more about deep tissue massage benefits we’d love to have you in for a free consultation. Join us or schedule your appointment to jump-start your path to less stress and fast, lasting recovery.
Thanks for choosing Matsuno Wellness.