When it comes to getting a therapeutic massage, “deep tissue” massage has become more popular in the last few years. People who get deep tissue massage work on the muscles and connective tissue in their bodies. A lot of the chiro massage moves are used, but the pressure is usually a lot stronger. Its main goal is to get rid of muscle tension or knots (known as “adhesions”).
Pressure in deep tissue massage therapy is deeper and more effective at relieving muscle tension than in Swedish massage therapy, so it is similar to Swedish massage therapy in that way. Deep layers of muscle tissue, tendons, and fascia (the protective layer that surrounds muscles, bones, and joints) are where the focus is most often.
It is possible to receive a variety of deep tissue massages. They are usually used to treat musculoskeletal problems like strains and sports injuries. Deep tissue massage is good for both your body and your mind. Deep tissue massage is different from other types of massage that are meant to make you feel good. It helps to alleviate pain and stiffness in the muscles. It can also help you relax your mind!
For Pain Relief, Deep Tissue Massage is an Excellent Option!
The advantages and applications of deep tissue massage are intertwined. According to a research published in the Western Journal of Medicine, its principal applications include relaxing, muscle pain alleviation, and anxiety reduction. Are there any other side effects? We go through it in more detail in the following section.
1. Pain relief
The aforementioned massage reduces overloads by promoting the elimination of knots that form in the muscles and connective tissue. This relieves pain, at least momentarily. It is advised as an adjuvant for joint pain and other chronic muscular diseases.
2. Relaxation and wellness
Good muscle health translates into a relaxed state of mind. Deep tissue massage is effective in this regard since it encourages the release of neurotransmitters that promote well-being.
It specifically promotes the release of dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. As a result, it can be used as a stress and anxiety relief therapy.
3. Sports performance
It is anticipated that the absence of stored tension will result in greater range of mobility for the muscles during training programmes. As a result, individuals increase the likelihood of losing weight and toning up as they exercise.
According to a study published in the North American Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, massage can assist athletes prepare for competition by increasing their overall performance. It also aids in the recuperation process following an exercise session and reduces the likelihood of an injury.
4. Sleep quality
Rest is the cornerstone for achieving peak performance the next day, regardless of the type of activities involved. In this context, deep tissue massage can be used as a complementary therapy to help you fall asleep more quickly and deeply.
This is due to the fact that it alleviates pain and inflammation in specific regions. It also has the additional effect of increasing the release of serotonin.
5. Injury relief
Several studies published in the Journal of Athletic Training have found that massage can help to lessen the inflammation associated with muscle injuries as well as the discomfort associated with those injuries. Deep tissue massage, in particular, is beneficial in the treatment of the following injuries:
- Tennis elbow
- Muscle contractures
- Low back pain
- Back pain
- Neck pain
Deep Tissue Massage Results
In order to receive the best outcomes from a deep tissue massage, it is necessary to be realistic about what can be accomplished. Many people urge that the therapist apply more pressure in the belief that this will result in better and faster results than the alternative. However, it is not always necessary to tighten the screws.
Knots and adhesions must be undone and tension released over months or years; this is not something that can be accomplished in an hour, no matter how much agony one is willing to undergo.
Typically, numerous sessions are required, with a gap of several days between each session, and an exercise programmed is recommended to work on posture and relaxation techniques, as well as to strengthen the entire body as a result.
Is deep tissue massage painful?
Deep tissue massage doesn’t have to hurt, but it is often more so than a relaxing massage. In any case, it is important to tell the therapist as soon as possible if there is any pain.
Afterward, you should drink a lot of water so that your body doesn’t build up lactic acid levels in your tissues. If you don’t follow these steps, you might get sick the next day.
It doesn’t matter if you drink guar or not to get a deep tissue massage. You may feel a little sore the next day. This means that a lot of waste has been removed from the tissues in this way. It should be gone in two or three days at the most.
Recommendations on Deep Tissue Massage
For deep tissue massage to provide the aforementioned benefits, it is convenient to put some recommendations into practice. These encompass the following:
1. Adequate hydration
It is vital to drink enough of water prior to the massage in order to ensure that the muscular tissue is ready to be treated and responds in the best possible way.
2. Continuous planning of the massage
It is recommended that you get a massage session every two weeks to keep your muscles in maximum condition and to avoid the formation of knots.
3. Save some relaxation time
After deep tissue exercises have been performed, it is recommended that you wait 12 hours before continuing your training. As a result, its advantages will be utilized without the risk of detrimental interruptions or relapses.
The Bottom Line
Deep tissue massage is not recommended for pregnant women, but a professional doctor may recommend some modifications based on the individual circumstances. People who have recently had surgery or chemotherapy procedures, on the other hand, must obtain the clearance of trained staff before proceeding.
In the event that the massage causes discomfort during and after its application, the first step that must be taken is to alert the practitioner of the type of discomfort that is being experienced in order to readapt or cease the practice as necessary.