Deep Tissue Massage is a type of massage therapy that focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissues and the inner sections of thick muscles. Its objective is to release the chronic forms of tension in the body through deep pressure and slow strokes on the targeted area. For this reason, this style of massage is recommended to people who are experiencing frequent pains originating from the area. However, people who receive this massage usually experience body pain for a day or two after the therapy session.
Why Deep Tissue Massage?
So why do people choose to go for this type of massage even though the pressure is intense? The reason is that it is very effective in targeting and treating certain muscles and muscle groups.
Moreover, this massage is very helpful to athletes who use their muscles daily for their training. This type of massage will help them loosen stiff muscles, provide pain relief, and eliminate scar tissue and increase flexibility.
Yet another benefit is to treat people with chronic pain, edema or swelling, muscle cramping, fibromyalgia, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Patients may find the intense pressure of this massage beneficial. For example, a person with edema on the legs may choose to undergo this type of therapy. The pressure exerted with this type of massage stimulates good circulation on the affected area, making it less painful and reducing the edema.
Correcting body posture, relaxing muscles and tendons, and treating sore areas of the body are just some of the benefits of deep tissue massage.
Deep Tissue Massage vs. Swedish Massage
Most of those who visit spas, health clubs, or their local massage therapist usually look for a soothing massage and one that “heals their” body at the same time. For these reasons, while Swedish massage has its own merits, it is slowly being integrated with deep tissue massage . This is especially popular for specific types of people such as athletes and those who experience chronic pain issues.
Deep Tissue Massage – Who Is It For?
A person does not need to be an athlete or be someone with a condition like edema to be able to be treated by this type of massage therapy. If the person is comfortable with this type of intense pressure and can handle the soreness during and after the therapy, he may opt for deep tissue massage.
However, this therapy is not for everyone. It is especially not recommended to those with injuries and those who cannot tolerate intense pressure. If you cannot tolerate deeper pressure or suffer from injuries that will not allow deep tissue massage, Swedish massage or other lighter and relaxing styles may be more beneficial.
Deep Tissue Massage Tips
Taking a warm bath or in sauna may be helpful to reduce soreness and relax muscles after the massage. This can be very soothing after an intense massage. Note that you should find a massage therapist that is experienced enough in doing deep tissue massage before scheduling an appointment.
Chrysanne Scharer is a massage therapist in Salem Oregon and specializes in this type of massage. She has been practicing for over 4 years. Please contact Chrysanne Scharer for more information. 503-508-1975. Book an appointment online at www.MassageTherapySalemOregon.com