Deep Tissue Massage
Although similar to Swedish massage, deep tissue is more focused on the deeper structures of the muscle tissues. It’s designed to relieve severe tension in the muscle and employs a dedicated set of techniques and strokes to achieve a measure of relief. Deep tissue massage uses many of the same movements and techniques as Swedish massage, but the pressure will generally be more intense, as the therapist works to release chronic muscle tension or Trigger Points (knot’s).
When a client asks for a massage and uses the term “deep tissue”, more often than not he or she is seeking to receive a full-body session with sustained deep pressure throughout. Deep tissue massage is often recommended for individuals who experience consistent pain, are involved in heavy physical activity (such as athletes), and patients who have sustained physical injury. It is not uncommon for receivers of deep tissue massage to have their pain replaced with a new muscle ache for a day or two.
Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage
- Relief of chronic pain
- Increased range of motion for limited mobility
- Recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash from an auto accident, falls, sports injury)
- Decrease in repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
- Postural problems, such as slouching
- Relief from osteoarthritis pain
- Relief of Fibromyalgia pain
- Reduction of muscle tension or spasm
