Deep tissue massage is a type of massage that is used to treat musculoskeletal problems like strains and sports injuries. It entails applying continuous pressure to the inner layers of your muscles and connective tissues with slow, deep strokes. This helps to break up scar tissue that forms following an injury and reduce tension in muscle and tissue.
It may also hasten the healing process by improving blood flow and decreasing inflammation.
Learn more about deep tissue massage, including how it compares to Swedish massage and what to expect during a session, by continuing reading.
What are the advantages of getting a deep tissue massage?
Deep tissue massage is beneficial to both the body and the mind. Deep tissue massage, unlike other massage techniques that focus on relaxation, helps to relieve muscle pain and stiffness. However, it can also help you relax mentally.
Deep tissue massage improved persons with chronic low back pain, according to a 2014 study including 59 participants. Its effects were compared to those of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen, according to the scientists (Advil).
Deep tissue massage has also been claimed to help with:
- sports-related injuries
fibromyalgia
high blood pressure plantar fasciitis
tennis elbow sciatica
What does it have in common with Swedish massage?
Massage therapy is divided into two types: deep tissue massage and Swedish massage. Both employ some of the same strokes, yet they serve different purposes and have vastly different pressure levels.
The following are the main distinctions between deep tissue and Swedish massage:
This is the intended use. Deep tissue massage is most commonly used to treat chronic pain, muscle strains, and sports injuries. Swedish massage is mostly used to induce relaxation and relieve muscle tension brought on by daily activities like sitting at a computer.
Pressure. Swedish massage is a softer version of deep tissue massage that employs significantly less tension. Both methods utilise the palms and fingers to knead and manipulate your tissues, but a deep tissue massage may also use the elbows and forearms to apply extra pressure.
Focused on area. Deep tissue massage focuses on the muscles’ deepest layers. It’s used to treat muscle and tendon injuries, as well as pain and stiffness in the joints and main muscle groups. Swedish massage focuses on the surface layers of muscle and the areas of the body that store the most stress, such as the neck, shoulders, and back.
During the massage, what happens?
Your massage therapist will want to know about your trouble areas before beginning your deep tissue massage. A deep tissue massage can target any part of your body or just a specific spot.
You’ll be asked to lie on your back or stomach under a sheet once you’re ready. Your amount of undress is up to you, but the region that has to be worked on must be revealed.
The massage therapist will use a gentler touch to warm up your muscles. They’ll begin working on your trouble areas once you’ve warmed up. They’ll come after you.