What is the Treatment?
Deep tissue massage is a therapeutic technique that targets the deeper layers of muscles and connective tissues. Deep tissue massage focuses on specific areas of the body to break scar tissues and improve overall muscle function. Deep tissue massage provides both physical and psychological relaxation. It is widely used to treat muscle pain, stiffness, sports injuries, and strains. The therapist uses slow and deep strokes which relax the deep layer of muscles and increase circulation.
Philosophy/Origin
Deep tissue massage originates from techniques used in traditional Western massage therapy. Initially, it was used to treat more serious muscle injuries and chronic tension. It has also been used to help the body recover from stress or trauma. It focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissues to promote healing.
Physical Benefits
Mental/Emotional Benefits
Long-Term Wellness
Regular deep-tissue massage sessions can lead to long-term pain management and improved mobility. Deep tissue massage helps prevent future injuries by maintaining muscle flexibility and joint health. It also supports the mental health of an individual by reducing the level of stress and anxiety.
Ideal Audience
Deep tissue massage is ideal for individuals who suffer from chronic muscle pain. It is ideal for athletes with some sports injuries, or those with high levels of physical activity. It is also useful for people who face challenges due to high levels of stress such as those with desk jobs or repetitive motion injuries.
Specific Conditions
The treatment of deep tissue massage involves the following steps:
Consultation
During the consultation, the therapist will evaluate and examine the specific pain areas and health conditions to make a treatment plan accordingly.
Preparation
The individual will be positioned on a massage table or plinth. The body areas remain uncovered where the therapist performs the massage techniques.
Warm-Up
The therapist may initiate the session with lighter strokes to warm up the muscles. It is done to prepare the muscles for deep massage.
Deep Pressure
After the initial light stroke, the therapist will work deeply into the muscles by using fingers, knuckles, forearms, or elbows to target specific areas. It is done by using slow strokes and firm pressure.
Focus Areas
The therapist will focus on the areas where there is pain or muscles are tightened. They also work on the area to break down adhesions and scar tissue while promoting muscle recovery.
What to Expect
During a deep tissue massage, people can expect more intense pressure than a typical relaxation massage. The therapist may focus on certain areas of tension or pain. It can feel slightly uncomfortable at times, but it is not a painful experience. Some areas might feel sore after the session, but it can be subsided by rest or icing.
Immediate Effects
Long-Term Effects
Long-term effects of deep tissue massage help to deal with chronic pain and muscle stiffness. It increases muscle recovery, especially for athletes or those with physical jobs. With multiple sessions of deep tissue massage, the overall body posture and alignment can be improved.
Before the Treatment
It is important to discuss any medical issue with the therapist or medical professional before undergoing deep tissue massage. It is done because, in some medical conditions, deep tissue massage may be contraindicated.
Aftercare
The therapist asked the individual to hydrate well after the massage to help flush out toxins released from the muscles. Rest is also recommended for the next 24 hours, especially if the individual feels sore. It is beneficial to perform stretch lightly to maintain flexibility and to increase the effectiveness of treatment.
Deep tissue massage is widely performed in countries where holistic care is an important part of the healthcare system such as India, China, Japan, and America. It is often offered by licensed massage therapists available on the Wellencia platform. They provide complete guidance throughout the journey.
