Deep Tissue Massage
Deep Tissue Massage is a massage technique that focuses on the deeper layers of
muscle tissue. It aims to release the chronic patterns of tension in the body through slow
strokes and deep finger pressure on the contracted areas, either following or going
across the fiber's of the muscles, tendons and fascia.
Deep tissue massage is used to release chronic muscle tension through slower strokes
and more direct deep pressure or friction applied across the grain of the muscles not
with the grain. Deep tissue massage helps to break up and eliminate scar tissue. Deep
tissue massage usually focuses on more specific areas and may cause some soreness
during or right after the massage. However, if the massage is done correctly you should
feel better than ever within a day or two.
Why get a Deep Tissue Massage?
It feels good and it is beneficial to your health. When muscles are stressed, they block
oxygen and nutrients, leading to inflammation that builds up toxins in the muscle tissue.
A deep-tissue massage helps loosen muscle tissues, release toxins from muscles and
get blood and oxygen circulating properly. Because many toxins are released, it's
important to drink plenty of water after a deep-tissue session to help eliminate these
toxins from the body.
What is the purpose of Deep Tissue Massage?
The purpose is to "unstick" the fibers of a muscle while releasing deeply-held patterns
of tension, removing toxins, while relaxing and soothing the muscle. It is both corrective
and therapeutic.
Muscular Pain and Injury
Injury to muscle or connective tissue can often cause temporary but complete disability.
Back injuries are the leading work-related injury in the United States with other muscle
and joint injuries taking their toll.
Muscle injuries can be caused by a number of factors including improper lifting
techniques, poor physical condition, posture, fatigue, stress, direct trauma, and age.
Once a muscle has been injured it is very likely that a repeat injury will occur.
Injury Prevention
The best way to avoid muscular injury is to exercise. Low impact, frequent exercise
keeps the body limber and agile. Walking, jogging, rollerblading, swimming, hiking, and
aerobics are examples of lower impact types of exercise. A stretching routine is also a
great way to keep muscles and joints functioning normally.
Injury Treatment
When an injury occurs it is important to allow time for the tissue to heal. Depending on
the location and severity of the injury, it may be wise to seek a medical or chiropractic
examination. Cold or warm compresses may lessen the pain, but should be used
sparingly. A cold compress will cause the tissues in and around an injury to constrict
and thus limit the swelling, however this will also decrease blood flow to the actual injury
and can prolong healing if used for extended periods of time. Using a warm compress or
heating pad will cause the tissues in and around an injury to open-up and promote
blood flow. Use both hot and cold treatment sparingly.
Post injury stretches can be very beneficial to the healing process. Stretching the
muscles and joints connecting the injury will help to relax the tension and guarding that
occurs with most injuries. Always begin a stretching routine lightly and cautiously.
Deep Tissue massage is a great way to relax the muscles around an injury and hence
take some of the pain and pulling sensation away. Many sufferers of back injuries have
found that post-injury massage decreases recovery time. I have experience treating
people with chronic back and muscle injuries and can suggest a massage that may
benefit you.