How to Get the Most from Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage is an innovative and effective method of therapy. It is more than just added pressure. It focuses on muscle and connective tissue that are located deep in the body. Superficial massage only works on the skin. Deep tissue massage provides a more therapeutic effect because it works on all layers of the body, effecting areas closer to the bone.

The purpose of a deep tissue massage is to relax the fibers of a tight muscle. This is both therapeutic and corrective. Where there is chronic pain or muscle injury, one will generally find adhesions, which are bands of painful, distorted tissues in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These adhesions can block proper circulation and cause pain, inflammation, and limited motion. To ease pain, deep tissue massage moves muscles out of a pattern of tension, and puts them back where they are supposed to me. It realigns the back and repositions the shoulders. Because it loosens the tissues, the muscles relax and release toxins and waste, and get blood and oxygen circulating properly.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Know what area of your body needs to be targeted for a deep tissue massage. Deep tissue massage not only feels good, it is good for the body because it focuses on a specific problem area or condition, such as chronic pain, osteoarthritis, or fibromyalgia. This form of therapy has also been highly successful at treating other connective tissue pains. Patients find relief from muscle tension or spasms, and help while recovering from an injury or repetitive strain, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

2. Relieve stress through deep tissue massage therapy. Besides alleviating pain, a deep tissue massage can increase blood flow, release toxins, speed up healing, remove scar tissue, and restore normal movement. It can also improve posture (by allowing the body to realign itself), and relieve stress tension.

3. Prepare for some discomfort that comes with the massage. In a deep tissue massage, pressure is applied through slow, steady strokes. More direct pressure is applied across the grain of the muscle, not with the grain. A massage therapist works with her upper extremities in entirety, not just her hands. During a massage, one should take deep, long, relaxed breaths. Let the therapist know where it hurts. After the massage, it is important to drink lots of water. This works to flush the toxins and metabolic waste from the system. There may be some lingering stiffness or pain, but it should subside in a day or so.

4. Make sure you are a candidate for deep tissue massage before booking a session. There are certain times or conditions under which deep tissue massage is not recommended. People with infectious skin disease, rashes or open wounds; immediately after chemotherapy, radiation or surgery; people with blood clots or prone to clots; pregnant women (check with your doctor and use a therapist certified in pregnancy massage); bruised or inflamed skin; tumors; abdominal hernia; areas of recent fractures should all avoid Deep tissue massage, or check with a doctor prior to having a session.

5. Make sure a therapist is qualified and certified. This will help prevent injuries to your body that stem from improper technique.

Tips & Warnings

• The patient should not eat a heavy meal before the message.
• It is best to arrive early to the appointment to complete the necessary forms.
• Try to remain calm and relaxed before your appointment.
• Followup should include drinking lots of water.

Resources

• Common Fibromyalgia Treatments
• Overview of Fibromyalgia
• Junior Rheumatoid Arthritis

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