What Is Deep Tissue Massage?
Many people think of massage as a relaxing experience. They're not wrong. It often is.
However, massage can also help your body heal and recover from injury. Deep tissue massage can treat musculoskeletal issues, including strains, muscle injuries, and more. It can also reduce tension and help prevent future problems. What is deep-tissue massage?
How is it different from other types of massage therapy?
Read below to find out more.
Understanding Deep Tissue Massage
Many consumers who see a licenced massage therapist are intrigued about the various treatments available. Swedish massage and deep tissue massage are the most common approaches. Swedish massage is generally used to help people relax and unwind.
Long strokes with light pressure are used in this delicate therapy. A Swedish technique concentrates on the surface muscles and tension-holding areas of the body, such as the shoulders and neck.
A deep tissue massage is a different approach. It uses far more pressure, and the therapist may use their elbows or forearms to work on deeper muscles. This type of treatment will focus on major muscle groups and joints in an effort to treat injuries, pain, and stiffness.
Does Deep Tissue Massage Hurt?
Deep tissue massage can be a little unpleasant since your massage therapist is working on deeper, tighter muscles. This is a more vigorous treatment than Swedish massage, but it shouldn't be too uncomfortable.
If your therapist needs to reduce the pressure during your treatment, you can tell them.
You could feel a little sore after the massage. To flush lactic acid out of your tissues, drink plenty of water afterward. This will speed up the recovery of your muscles and allow you to feel better sooner.
What to Expect During a Deep Tissue Massage
You might be unsure what to expect when seeking licenced massage treatment. Although you can wear underwear, a deep tissue massage is usually performed without clothing. You'll be lying down under a sheet, and the massage therapist will move it to work on your legs, arms, and back while maintaining your privacy.
To warm up your muscles, the therapist will begin with lighter, longer strokes. Then they'll go over your issues in further detail. The amount of pressure applied will vary, and you should always speak up if it becomes too painful or uncomfortable.
Although some therapists allow you to arrange shorter 30-minute sessions, a deep tissue massage usually lasts 60 to 90 minutes. You'll drink a lot of water after the massage.
You may have some soreness for a few days after your therapy. You can use cold or hot pads or over-the-counter medicine to help, but it shouldn’t last long. After any massage, you want to avoid strenuous activity and heavy meals right afterward. Instead, stick to light activities and have a snack if you’re hungry.
Many people wonder how often they can have a deep tissue massage. It’s generally safe and effective to have one every two or three weeks if you want regular treatment.
Who Shouldn’t Have a Deep Tissue Massage?
For the most part, deep tissue massage is both safe and effective. Deep pressure massages, on the other hand, should be avoided by those with specific medical issues. Massage should be avoided by persons who have a blood clotting condition or are using blood thinners. It's also possible that it won't be safe for people who are receiving cancer therapy.
Pregnant women should definitely avoid deep tissue massage and instead opt for a softer Swedish massage. The same is true for people who have osteoporosis or other bone problems.
If you have any concerns regarding deep tissue massage's suitability, consult your doctor and massage therapist. They will be able to suggest the best treatment for you.
Deep Tissue Massage Can Help You Relax
While Swedish massage is commonly thought of as a "relaxing massage," deep tissue massage can have a longer-lasting effect. You can achieve pain relief and relaxation by going deeper into your primary muscle groups and focusing on tendons, knots, and other tissues.
Deep tissue massage can help with sports injuries, sciatica, fibromyalgia, and other chronic pain conditions. This sort of therapy, like other massage choices, helps to calm your muscles and mind.
Connect with a qualified massage therapist today if you're seeking for deep tissue massage. You'll be ecstatic that you did!