Deep Tissue Massage Therapy

What is Deep Tissue Massage?

Deep tissue massage is a type of therapeutic massage that focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. It's used to treat a variety of conditions, including muscle pain and tension, injuries, and chronic conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia. The massage therapist uses slow, deep strokes and direct pressure to target the deeper muscle fibers and connective tissue. Compared to a traditional Swedish massage, which focuses on the surface muscles, a deep tissue massage aims to relieve tension and pain in the deeper muscle layers. The massage therapist may use their elbows, forearms, or knuckles to apply more pressure and target specific areas that need attention.

Deep tissue massage can be slightly uncomfortable, especially for people who have never had a massage before. However, the pressure should never be unbearable. If you experience more discomfort than you’d like during the massage, it's important to let your therapist know so that they can adjust the pressure or technique to make you more comfortable.

Deep tissue massage is often recommended for individuals who experience chronic pain, have sustained an injury, or have tight or sore muscles. It can also be used to improve posture, reduce stress, and increase mobility.

During a deep tissue massage, the therapist will start out with lighter strokes to increase circulation and warm up the muscles, and then will start using deeper techniques such as:

• Stripping: deep, gliding pressure using the elbow, knuckles, thumbs.
• Friction: smaller circular movements across the grain of a muscle to release tension.

It isn’t uncommon to feel sore after this type of massage, but drinking lots of water and getting some extra sleep can certainly help the recovery process. Read why water is important after your massage here and how much water you should be drinking daily here. 

Who Should Get a Deep Tissue Massage?

Anyone who experiences chronic pain, muscle tension, or discomfort in specific areas of their body may benefit from a deep tissue massage. This type of massage is often recommended for individuals who:

1. Suffer from chronic conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or pain in the neck, shoulders, hands/arms, back, hips, knees or feet.
2. Have sustained an injury or overused specific muscles, such as those in the neck, back, or legs.
3. Experience muscle tightness, knots, or soreness from physical activity or repetitive motions.
4. Have poor posture or experience tension in their neck, shoulders, upper back, or other areas.
5. Are feeling stressed or suffer from anxiety or depression.

It's important to note that deep tissue massage may not be appropriate for everyone. People with certain medical conditions, such as blood clots, osteoporosis, or certain skin conditions, may need to avoid deep tissue massage or receive it with caution. If you have any concerns or medical conditions, it's best to consult with a doctor or your massage therapist before scheduling a deep tissue massage. 

Instructions for Before and After Your Massage

Before a Deep Tissue Massage:

• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to help prepare your muscles for the massage.
• Communicate with your therapist: Let your therapist know if you have any specific areas of concern or if you're feeling pain in any particular areas.
• Avoid eating a heavy meal: Eating a heavy meal before your massage can make you feel uncomfortable. It's best to eat a light meal or snack before your appointment. 

After a Deep Tissue Massage:

• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to help flush out any toxins released from your muscles during the massage.
• Rest: Give your body time to adjust and recover after the massage. Try to avoid intense physical activity for at least a few hours.
• Apply heat: Applying heat to the areas that were massaged can help to reduce muscle soreness and stiffness.
• Stretch: Stretching the muscles that were worked on during the massage can help to improve flexibility and reduce soreness.
• Follow up with your therapist: If you have any concerns or questions about the massage or your recovery, don't hesitate to reach out to your therapist. They can provide additional guidance and recommendations to help you achieve the best results.
• Take it easy: Deep tissue massage can be intense, so it's important to give yourself time to rest and recover. You may feel sore or stiff for a day or two after the massage, but this should improve with time.

Please note: Every session is done on a massage table fitted with a PEMF mat to further enhance your session. Read about PEMF here.

For any other questions, feel free to text or call 218-979-1137. Click here to book today!