Eliminate Muscle Tension with a Deep Tissue Massage
You may believe or may have heard that deep tissue massage must be painful to be effective. And it is true that parts of the massage may cause discomfort or pain. If the pain is outside of your comfort range, it is important to tell the massage therapist. Equally true is the possibility of feeling stiffness or pain after a deep tissue massage. Your massage therapist will usually recommend applying heat pack to the area to alleviate pain or discomfort associated with deep tissue massage therapy.
How does Deep Tissue Massage Therapy Work?
Deep tissue massage therapists focus on relaxing the upper layers of muscles and realigning the deeper muscles that cause chronic aches and pains associated with upper and lower back pain, stiff necks, tightness of leg muscles, and sore shoulders. Deep tissue massage uses some of the same strokes used in regular message therapy. The differences is deep tissue massage requires slower movements and more pressure concentrated on areas that are tense and painful. Deep tissue massage reaches the sub layer of muscles and the connective tissue that surrounds the muscles to ease muscle tension.
What to Expect
The massage therapist may ask you to take a deep breath during therapy on tense areas. The massage is performed using fingertips, knuckles, hands, forearms, and elbows. The massage strokes are typically slower and pressure is harder than that used in a relaxation massage.
Immediate relief may not be achieved after the first massage treatment. Multiple massage sessions may be required to achieve full pain relief.
Are there any Precautions before having Deep Massage Therapy?
People who have undergone certain medical procedures such as chemotherapy, radiation, or recent surgeries should discuss if having a deep therapy massage is safe for them. People who have a history of blood clots such as deep vein thrombosis or thrombophlebitis must talk to their doctor before getting a massage. Deep tissue massage may cause a blood clot to become dislodged or cause a clot if the person has a risk of clot formation.
People with osteoporosis, bruises, rashes, infected or inflamed skin, open wounds or wounds that have not healed, tumors, fragile bones or recent broken bones, hernias should avoid deep tissue massage unless approved by their doctor.
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant before considering having a deep tissue massage. It is generally recommended to avoid this type of massage during pregnancy.
How to Avoid Soreness after Deep Tissue Massage
Incorporating an integrated program that includes remedial exercise, stretching, and practicing relaxation techniques along with regular massage therapy will help to prevent the occurrence of deep tissue tension.
For further information about Deep Tissue Massage Therapy or to book your appointment, call Ultimate Health Clinic at 905-251-0162
