subject: Combat Stress And Free Your Mind By Means Of An Invigorating Deep Tissue Massage [print this page] The strokes used in deep tissue massage are applied against the natural grain of the muscles, whereas traditional massage techniques are administered in the same direction. Some people claim to experience slight soreness or discomfort as a result of the more deliberate pressure used during deep tissue massage. And although this soreness may last for a couple of days, the total relaxation and pain relief experienced far outweighs any temporary discomfort that may result.
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.
During the deep tissue massage, your therapist may ask you to breathe deeply when he addresses certain tense areas. He or she will use their hands, forearms, fingertips, knuckles and elbows to administer the massage.
Because deep tissue massage works to flush certain metabolic waste from the tissues, it is important that you drink plenty of water after the therapy. And eating a heavy meal prior to a deep tissue massage is not recommended.
Deep tissue massage is not the right solution for everyone. Because the pressure being applied is much more intense than traditional massage therapy, it is not recommended for anyone who:
