Deep Tissue Massage
By Jessica, March 9, 2008
Deep Tissue Massage is a form of massage therapy that works on the deeper layers of muscle tissue in the body. Deep Tissue Massage aims to release tension in the body by using deep finger pressure on tight or contracted areas of muscles and tendons.
Deep Tissue Massage has corrective and therapeutic benefits. The aim of the treatment is to release deep patterns of tension and stress, while relaxing and soothing muscles.
Deep Tissue Massage is used to relieve chronic muscle pain or injury as it works on adhesions in muscles, tendons and ligaments. These adhesions can block circulation, limit movement, and cause inflammation which can lead to pain. By loosening muscle tissue and releasing toxins, a Deep Tissue Massage will boost circulation, relax the muscles and restore normal movement. Deep tissue massage also helps to eliminate scar tissue.
Compared to other forms of massage, the pressure used during a Deep Tissue Massage will generally be more intense, as the therapist works to effect chronic muscle tension or knots in the connective tissue. Deep Tissue Massage is extremely effective for chronically tense areas such as stiff necks, tightness in the lower back and sore shoulders.
Deep Tissue Massage therapists may use fingertips, knuckles, hands, elbows, and forearms during the treatment. There may be some stiffness after a Deep Tissue Massage, but this should subside within a day.
The massage therapist may recommend applying ice to the area after the massage. It is important to drink plenty of water after your Deep Tissue Massage to flush metabolic waste from the tissues.
