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What is Deep Tissue Massage?
What is Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep tissue massage is a corrective manual therapy that focuses on realigning the deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue (fascia). It is specifically designed to address chronic aches and pains, as well as contracted areas such as a stiff neck and upper back, low back pain, leg muscle tightness, and sore shoulders.
Unlike a relaxation massage which uses long, light strokes, a deep tissue session utilizes slow, firm strokes and deep finger pressure. The therapist focuses on releasing "adhesions" bands of painful, rigid tissue commonly known as knots that can block circulation, cause pain, limit movement, and trigger inflammation.
Who is it Meant For?
Who is it Meant For?
Deep tissue massage is best suited for individuals who are comfortable with intense pressure and have specific physical goals:
Chronic Pain Sufferers: People dealing with long-term issues like sciatica, fibromyalgia (with caution), or chronic lower back pain.
Athletes & Bodybuilders: Those with high muscle density who require deeper work to reach the underlying tissue layers.
People with Postural Issues: Individuals whose bodies have "locked" into a certain position due to desk work or repetitive manual labor.
Injury Recovery: Those looking to break up scar tissue after a surgery or a significant muscle tear (once fully healed).
"High Pressure" Seekers: Clients who find that light or medium pressure simply doesn't "reach" their tension.
Deep tissue massage aims to physically break down the structural "glues" that keep your body in pain, allowing for a fresh start with better alignment and less restriction.
Key Benefits
Key Benefits
Breaks Down Scar Tissue: Effectively reduces adhesions and scar tissue caused by old injuries or chronic tension.
Reduces Chronic Pain: Targets the deep-seated sources of pain rather than just surface-level symptoms.
Lowers Blood Pressure: Studies have shown that deep tissue work can help reduce systolic, diastolic, and arterial blood pressure.
Increases Mobility: By releasing the fascia and deep muscle fibers, it restores a full range of motion to restricted joints.
Repetitive Strain Relief: Highly effective for conditions like tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, or plantar fasciitis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How does deep tissue differ from a regular massage?
How does deep tissue differ from a regular massage?
The primary difference is the intensity and the intent. While a regular massage focuses on relaxation and surface blood flow, deep tissue goes "past" the top layers of muscle. The movements are much slower, more deliberate, and more localized to specific problem areas.
What should I wear to my appointment?
What should I wear to my appointment?
Standard professional draping is used, and most clients undress to their comfort level. Because deep tissue involves the use of friction and specific angles, your therapist may use less oil than a Swedish massage to ensure they can "grip" the tissue rather than sliding over it.
Should I get a massage right before a big race or game?
Should I get a massage right before a big race or game?
Timing is everything. A pre-event massage (1–2 days before) should be light and invigorating to stimulate blood flow. Deep tissue work is best saved for maintenance days or post-event recovery (at least 48 hours after a competition) to allow the body to properly integrate the changes.
Does it hurt?
Does it hurt?
Deep tissue massage can be uncomfortable at times, especially when the therapist is working on an area with significant adhesions. You may feel a "intense stretch" or localized pressure. It should be "productive pain" but if the pressure is so high that you are tensing up or holding your breath, tell your therapist immediately so they can back off.
Will I feel sore after the treatment?
Will I feel sore after the treatment?
Yes, it is very common to feel sore for 24 to 72 hours after a deep tissue session. It can feel similar to the soreness you experience after a very heavy workout. This is due to the release of metabolic waste and the physical manipulation of deep fibers. Drinking extra water and using an Epsom salt bath can significantly help.
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