How to Prepare for a Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage has proven to be a very effective treatment for many people suffering with various chronic pain issues, including muscles, ligaments and some mild forms of arthritis. Before arriving for your treatment, there are a few simple things you can do that will help you gain the maximum benefit from the deep tissue massage.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Physical therapist and/or massage therapist trained in deep tissue massage
• <br>8 hours of sleep and a light diet
• <br>Increased water intake, before and after treatment

1. If deep tissue massage is a therapy recommended by your physician, it is likely that he will refer you to a therapist with specialized training in the procedure. If not, do not hesitate to ask for a referral. It is highly recommended that you see or talk with your physician before beginning any type of therapy in order to rule out any serious issues that could be adversely affected. The most important step in getting the greatest benefit from the treatment is to have an expert diagnosis and to work with a well-trained specialist in deep tissue massage.
2. Prepare your mind and body for the deep tissue massage. Before your appointment, you should make a point to get plenty of rest and sleep in the 24 hours prior to your treatment. Take a cap nap or power nap during the day before therapy, and get at least 8 hours of sleep. Use relaxation techniques and try to maintain a stress-free environment. Think about whatever calms you--light jazz, aroma therapy, meditation, etc. Also, keep your diet light, especially for a few hours before your appointment. Increase your water intake and decrease your sugar and caffeine leading up to the treatment. After the deep tissue massage, increase your water intake to help the muscles and tissues gain as much benefit as possible.
3. Deep tissue massage focuses on very targeted layers of a muscle or arthritic areas by applying direct pressure similar to a kneading motion deep into the affected area. It is likely that you will feel some pressure or manageable discomfort; however, you should immediately inform your therapist if your discomfort becomes pain. For a day or two following the therapy, the area may feel tender and somewhat "bruised." This is not unusual, but, again, if the discomfort registers as pain you should contact your physician. After a day or two, you are most likely to feel the benefits of the deep tissue massage. The long term benefits vary. A person with muscle soreness may need only one treatment while people with chronic pain may need continuing treatments over time.
4. Deep tissue massage can offer great benefits for people suffering from chronic pain in areas including the shoulders, neck, back and hip areas. From sports injuries to disc problems, deep tissue massage can dramatically decrease continuing pain. Additionally, it is a non-invasive treatment that allows you and your doctor to combine it with other treatments if necessary for a long-term gain. Ask your physician for literature on deep tissue massage should she suggest it as a course of treatment. The more you understand about any treatment, the better prepared you will be.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid heavy, intense exercise in the 24 hours leading up to your therapy; instead, use yoga or light stretching.
• <br>Arrive for your appointment at least 15 minutes early and have any required documents and insurance information with you.
• It is not recommended that persistent, intense pain be ignored. See your physician before treating such situations yourself!
• <br>Never let deep tissue massage therapy continue if you are in pain. Say something to your therapist!
• <br>Never massage any area with an open wound.