Deep tissue massage is a massaging method that uses slow, deep strokes along the muscle grain to ease stress in your body. By applying pressure with fingers, deep tissue massage helps relieve chronic muscle tension in areas tightened due to stress.
The massage focuses on deeper tissue layers of muscles and fascia (connective tissues). The therapist works on shortened muscles and checks for distorted postural patterns to correct them. Using slow, firm strokes, muscle fibers are lengthened, which reduces stress, restores balance, and supports the body’s functional integrity. While applying strokes, the therapist may use fingers, elbows, thumbs, hand heel, foot heel, or forearms to reach deeper tissues.
How Will I Feel During and After a Deep Tissue Massage?
You may experience soreness during or after a deep tissue massage, but usually, you feel better within a day or two. After the session, you feel healthier as tight muscles are loosened, and toxins stored in the muscles are released. Blood and oxygen flow more efficiently, making you feel refreshed and revitalized. It is important to drink plenty of water after the massage because released toxins are flushed out through hydration.
Who Can Benefit Most from Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep tissue massage is especially helpful for athletes who use their muscles intensively. People with chronic pain, fibromyalgia, edema, muscle cramps, or carpal tunnel syndrome often feel relief after a deep tissue massage. The slow, strong strokes around affected areas improve blood circulation, which helps reduce pain and promote healing.
Are There Any Risks or Precautions?
Deep tissue massage has grown very popular and often replaces Swedish massage because of its effectiveness. However, it is not suitable for everyone. Avoid deep tissue massage if you recently had surgery, suffer from osteoporosis without doctor approval, are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, or are at risk of blood clots. Also, avoid it if you have infections, unhealed wounds, abdominal hernia, or fractures that are not fully healed. Always consult a doctor before getting a deep tissue massage if any of these conditions apply.