subject: End Your Stressful Day But Also Relieve Chronic Pain Using A Fun, Relaxing Deep Tissue Massage [print this page] Deep tissue massage is primarily prescribed to reduce the effects of chronic tension and the formation of knots, via alignment of the body's deepest layer of tendons, fascia and muscle tissue. Traditional massage techniques - such as Swedish massage - are applied primarily for relaxation and rejuvenation of the body. In addition, a deep tissue massage can reduce inflammation throughout the body and eliminate painful scar tissue. Deep tissue massage has proven to be very soothing in areas where pain caused by stress and tension is located, such as the shoulders, lower back and neck.
Another way that deep tissue massage differs from Swedish massage - or other traditional methods - is that it is performed against the grain of the muscles instead of in the same direction. Because deeper pressure and more deliberate strokes are used in administering deep tissue massage, the recipient might feel slight discomfort and soreness for a couple of days following the procedure. The more intense pressure, however, provides relaxation and pain relief that is second to none.
When you experience chronic tension or injury, bands of rigid, painful tissue - or adhesions - form which can block circulation, limit your movement and cause pain and inflammation. Deep tissue massage works to break down these adhesions to restore movement and reduce pain.
If you are one of the few people who do experience discomfort or any amount of pain during a deep tissue massage resulting from the firmer pressure being applied, please let your therapist know so that the proper adjustments in his or her technique can be made immediately. Any pain or discomfort you may experience from your deep tissue massage will only be temporary and should disappear within a day or two. An ice pack applied to the affected area will generally provide the temporary relief needed.
According to medical research, many people report that deep tissue massage is more effective than physical therapy, exercise, medications or chiropractic procedures in relieving the pain associated with osteoarthritis or fibromyalgia. Deep tissue massage - unlike traditional massage therapy which is used for relaxation and rejuvenation - is also administered to address other problems such as:
Increase the mobility in our body;
Relieve the symptoms of chronic pain,
Reduce pain caused by repetitive injury strain;
Correct postural imperfections;
Relax muscle spasms often created as a result of stress and tension.
Your massage therapist will probably suggest that you drink plenty of water after your deep tissue massage therapy session to help flush out any toxins that are released as a result of your massage. The release is made possible by the use of more intense pressure by the therapist's hands, fingertips, forearms and elbows to administer the deep tissue massage and he or she may ask you to take deep breaths when targeting a sensitive area. Heavy meals should also be avoided before undergoing deep tissue massage.
Because of its intensity, deep tissue massage therapy is not recommended for people who:
Currently suffers from open wounds, bruises or any type of skin disease;
Has recently fractured a bone or had surgery;
Is receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy;
Experiences blood clots;
Is currently pregnant;
Has tumors, abdominal hernia or inflammation of the skin.
